Get your Best Shot @ www.DickScott.com

POLARIS REPORTS RECORD 2011 FOURTH QUARTER

2012-01-31T17:16:00.000-05:00

MINNEAPOLIS (January 25, 2012) — Polaris Industries Inc. (NYSE: PII) today reported record net income of $0.90 per diluted share for the fourth quarter of 2011, up 15 percent over the 2010 fourth quarter. Net income for the fourth quarter 2011 was a record $63.9 million, an increase of 17 percent over the same period in 2010. Record sales of $782.0 million for the fourth quarter 2011 increased 26 percent over 2010 fourth quarter sales of $618.4 million.

Full Year Results

For the full year ended December 31, 2011, Polaris reported record net income of $227.6 million, or a record $3.20 per diluted share, compared to $147.1 million, or $2.14 per diluted share for the year ended December 31, 2010. This represents a 50 percent increase on a diluted share basis and a 55 percent increase in net income. Sales for the full year 2011 totaled a record $2,656.9 million, an increase of 33 percent compared to sales of $1,991.1 million for the full year 2010.

”Our record fourth quarter results were a fitting ending to a year in which we generated record annual sales and earnings and significantly exceeded our initial expectations. Our top and bottom-line expansion, and the momentum we are sustaining throughout our business, directly results from our focus on driving innovation, enhancing our product offering, reducing costs, and growth through new global markets and adjacencies,” stated Scott Wine, Polaris' Chief Executive Officer. “Specifically, during the year we furthered our leading market share position in off-road vehicles while continuing to gain market share in motorcycles and snowmobiles. Moreover, we introduced over 20 new vehicles, including award-winning products like the RANGER RZR 570 value recreational off-road vehicle, the 800 Pro-RMK snowmobile, and the Victory Cross Country Tour motorcycle. Our operations team managed to meet the increased demand for these vehicles while bringing our new Monterrey manufacturing facility online on time and on budget, driving initial 2011 savings on plan with future projections in line with stated expectations. Building on our surging core businesses, our military and Bobcat adjacencies continue to gain momentum, and we have made considerable progress in expanding our international presence with increased sales in Europe, China, and India. Lastly, we added to our small electric vehicle portfolio with the acquisition of Global Electric Motorcars (GEM) and Goupil Industrie SA, which expands our ability to compete in this fragmented, fast-growing $4 billion market.”

As read on: http://www.polarisindustries.com/en-us/Company/News/Pages/News-Item.aspx?articleID=32

“Fitting out” the Texaco service bay in Driving America

2012-01-24T17:05:00.000-05:00

The new Driving America Exhibit is ONLY 5 days away from opening at the Henry Ford Museum! This remarkable mix of hundreds of historically significant vehicles, artifacts, digital media, interactive play and personal accounts, makes this exhibit like no other exhibit!

Texaco Station hands-on activity - DA

Driving America will offer a brand-new opportunity for kids to pretend they’re auto mechanics. And what better place for this to occur than inside the service bay of the Texaco station—a space that’s been closed to the public since this historic building was brought to Henry Ford Museum in 1987?

Inside this newly-opened space, kids will be able to change tires and mufflers, check fluids and filters, and use a creeper to glide under a ¾-scale, 1960s-era car. Our Education team has made sure that these activities are safe, easy to understand, and age-appropriate.

But the curators got a different assignment: create the atmosphere of an auto garage from the 1960s era using real artifacts. We are, after all, a history museum. We pride ourselves on authenticity. And we wanted to include real objects that adults could relate to and talk about with kids who had never heard of things like rust-proofing.

But how to go about creating that atmosphere?

We looked at old pictures of service bay interiors (there weren’t many). We shared our memories (or those of our husbands or fathers) of old auto garage interiors. We considered what was available from our own collection and what could be acquired through outside sources. (The designation “NOS” on eBay turned out to be a goldmine to the world of “new old stock” auto accessories.)

Just furnishing the space as a look-in would have been easy, but the ultimate challenge was that people would be entering this space, potentially touching and interacting with these items. So we determined that some things would be placed low and would invite touching (like the hubcaps), while rarer items, like the license plates, would be placed higher up.

It’s sometimes hard for us literal-minded curators to think about how to furnish a space that’s “just pretend”…but that’s what we tried to do here.

Do you have any memories of old full-service stations like our Texaco one, or remember hearing details of them from your parents or grandparents? Share them in the comments section below – and be sure to check out the Texaco Service Bay when “Driving America” opens this Sunday, January 29!

As read on: http://blog.thehenryford.org/2012/01/fitting-out-the-texaco-service-bay-in-driving-america/

The NEW 2013 DODGE DART

2012-01-23T15:58:00.000-05:00

It's been a full generation in car years since Dodge offered a compact sedan and even longer since the brand offered a truly competitive model in the segment. Considering that sedans represent about 85 percent of all retail compact-car purchases, the gap in Chrysler's lineup has been particularly glaring, the five-door hatchback Caliber notwithstanding.

All of that changes this spring, with the debut of the 2013 Dodge Dart, which had its coming-out party at the Detroit auto show.

The Dart is based on the Alfa Romeo Giulietta from Chrysler parent company Fiat, which is already winning praise in Europe for its sleek design and sporty driving character. The Dart loses none of the good stuff while gaining buff Dodge sheetmetal that takes full advantage of the car's proportions.

Most prominent is the car's face, which combines a floating Dodge crosshair grille in a full-width mask fitted with an active shutter system that closes at speed to reduce aerodynamic drag. Subtle Coke-bottle sports-car toning carries through the side panels, while an unmistakable Dodge wraparound 152-LED tail-lamp treatment completes the look.

Interior appointments pick up on the theme, including ambient lighting, an available seven-inch reconfigurable gauge cluster and optional light pipes surrounding the floating instrument panel and 8.4-inch touch-screen media center.

All Dart models benefit from taut Euro-tuned underpinnings, relying on high-strength steel for more than two-thirds of the structure.

The front-drive Dart will be offered with three four-cylinder engines: a 160-hp, 145-lb-ft 2.0-liter; a 160-hp, 184-lb-ft turbo 1.4-liter; and a 184-hp, 171-lb-ft 2.4-liter-the latter two with Fiat's MultiAir variable intake and combustion timing. Three six-speed transmissions will be available: a dual-clutch gearbox, an automatic and a manual. The manual will be offered with all three engines, while the automatic will be limited to the 2.0-liter and the 2.4-liter. The dual-clutch will be paired exclusively with the 1.4-liter engine.

As Read on : http://www.autoweek.com/article/20120108/DETROIT/120109891#ixzz1kJF6XhRN

Nissan Leaf batteries seek second life as home storage

2012-01-20T08:26:00.001-05:00

Perhaps you'd be more willing to buy an electric car if you knew that you could sell those pricey batteries down the road.

Nissan and electric power company ABB yesterday announced a partnership to test the technical and commercial feasibility of repurposing used EV batteries for energy storage on the grid and in homes. ABB will work with a joint venture called 4R Energy (for reuse, refabricate, resell, recycle) created by Nissan North America and industrial conglomerate Suminoto to research secondary uses of EV batteries.

The partnership intends to make a prototype stationary lithium ion battery system with at least 50 kilowatt hours of stored energy, which is enough to supply 15 average homes for two hours.

Batteries are the most expensive component of an electric vehicle, costing several thousand dollars depending on the size. After 10 years of driving, automakers expect they will have about 70 percent of their original capacity, which will lower a car's range.

But the batteries are still workable for many energy storage applications, such as home batteries or buffering the distribution grid. Lithium ion batteries are well suited for delivering bursts of power on the grid for minutes or hours. That means they could be used to create a steady flow of power to consumers as more variable wind and solar power comes onto the grid, said Jochen Kreusel, global head of ABB's smart grid program.

ABB is already working with GM on a similar project to repurpose Chevy Volt batteries for energy storage.

In addition to the technical challenge of repackaging used batteries, the partnership will seek to answer whether the end stationary storage product is commercially viable. In the past few years, utilities in the U.S. have started to experiment with neighborhood energy storage systems to provide backup for a group of homes and relieve pressure on the grid during peak times.

As read on: http://news.cnet.com/8301-11386_3-57361715-76/nissan-leaf-batteries-seek-second-life-as-home-storage/

The winter weather is just in time for the Plymouth Ice Festival

2012-01-19T11:05:00.000-05:00

The Plymouth Ice Festival Weekend is finally here and it looks like the weather is cooperating! Maybe a little too much with all this snow we have falling right now, but at least the ice will stay Frozen!!

The following lanes or roads are closed through SUNDAY, January 22nd in downtown Plymouth as a result of the Plymouth Ice Festival
• NORTHBOUND MAIN STREET – From Ann Arbor Trail to Penniman will be closed
• WESTBOUND ANN ARBOR TRAIL – From Union/Deer to Main Street will be closed
• SOUTHBOUND UNION – From south of Roe to Ann Arbor Trail will be closed
• PENNIMAN - From Main to Union will be closed

Drivers should be aware that additional road closures should be anticipated during the weekend as crowds come into the Kellogg Park area. There will be additional Handicapped Parking posted on Union Street between Ann Arbor Trail and Roe Street. Please observe the temporary signs.

For complete information on the Plymouth Ice Festival check out their web site at www.plymouthicefestival.com or contact the Chamber of Commerce at 734-453-1540.

Also the CITY’S SNOW RESPONSE TEAM is on the road! The City of Plymouth Department of Municipal Services Snow Response Team is currently on the road with salt trucks as a result of the current snowfall in the Plymouth area. All major streets and municipal parking areas are being treated at this time. Residential side streets are snow covered and slick and drivers are urged to use caution and their winter driving skills during today’s snowfall.

Auto dealers gearing up for tremendous year

2012-01-16T15:26:00.000-05:00

“The sky's the limit.”

That's how Jim Bechtell, owner of the Somerset Buick/GMC dealership, sums up his outlook for the upcoming year. With the 2012 North American International Auto Show in full swing this week, Bechtell and other auto dealers around southeast Michigan are eager to capitalize on the success the industry enjoyed in 2011.

“General Motors for Buick and GMC, they've got a nice little niche with the premium vehicle market,” Bechtell said. “They're not luxury cars like Cadillac, but they're not Chevys either. The price point is right in the sweet spot for these world-class cars.”

He then pointed to the all-new Verano and the launch of the Encore as examples of how General Motors is gearing up for the year.

“It's all about the product,” Bechtell said. “We can now offer vehicles that get 32 mpg or 36 mpg and you don't have to feel like you're crammed inside. They've got capacity and they offer great performance.”

Dick Scott, owner of Dick Scott Dodge in Plymouth, shares the enthusiasm.

“We've got great products to start with,” he said Friday. “We've got the 2013 Dart coming in June — it's just a phenomenal car. The banks are really concentrating on auto loans, there are strides in the economy and it's an election year, which is always good for retail.”

He estimates a 15- to 20-percent increase in sales across the board.

“We had a great 2011,” he said. “We finished December with a flurry and everything is pointed in the right direction, which is good for the entire economy.”

Mike Schrieber, general manager of Bill Brown Ford in Livonia, said the newly-designed 2013 Escape and Fusion are sure to capture the public's attention.

“Bill Brown Ford is in a unique position,” he said. “We sell more Escapes and Fusions than any dealer in the United States. We'll be the ones who get the inventory, especially in the beginning ,when they're hard to get.”

At the same time, Schrieber said leasing deals on 2012 Fusions and Escapes have been sweetened to move the inventory.

“It really is all about the customer,” he said.

Roy Williams, sales manager at Avis Ford in Southfield, adds the stylishly revamped 2013 Taurus to his list of hot-selling products for the coming year.

“We've got quite a bit of momentum going right now, and to add to that momentum we've got the new Fusion, the new Escape and the new Taurus,” Williams said. “Anyone heading down to the auto show will get a chance to see just how great these cars look.”

Williams added that Ford plans to continue with its aggressive incentive programs to keep people heading into the showrooms.

“Ford is committed to staying aggressive,” he said. “We are always striving to being the best.”

Scott LaRiche, vice president of Lou LaRiche Chevrolet in Plymouth Township, expects the public to be pleasantly surprised by the number of new vehicles being introduced at this year's car show, not to mention the quality.

“I think the number one thing in 2012 is every manufacturer across the globe has excellent products that people can see at the auto show,” he said. “I spoke to some of the manufacturers at the show and they're anticipating 14.2 million to 15 million in car sales across the globe this year. That's a nice uptick from last year's number, which I think was around 13.5 million.”

Along with better cars, LaRiche said many of the GM dealerships are getting face-lifts to offer nicer showrooms and customer lounges. He also touted the 2013 Malibu that's expected to arrive in his showroom in the next several weeks.

“They took it to a whole new level,” LaRiche said. “They're taking cues from the Camaro and Corvette in terms of styling — and it gets up to 38 mpg on the highway. For a mid-sized vehicle, that's incredible.”

As read on:http://www.hometownlife.com/article/20120115/NEWS02/201150343/Auto-dealers-gearing-up-tremendous-year?odyssey=mod|newswell|text|Royal%20Oak|p

Plymouth Ice Festival Organizer Hopes for Wintry Weather

2012-01-13T10:27:00.000-05:00

With the Plymouth Ice Festival one week away, organizer Sam Walton says he has been losing sleep.

The restlessness doesn't come from the organizational or fundraising standpoint for the famed winter festival, however. Walton says the unseasonably mild temperatures this winter haven't been ideal for a weekend-long event that features ice with a variety of shapes, sizes and functions.

"Weather is obviously one of the biggest variables that we’ve had to deal with," Walton said.

Rather than the rain and warm temperatures of late, Walton says he is hoping for at least a dusting of snow and cold air.

There certainly is a lot at stake: The event typically draws about 100,000 people annually and is the largest free ice exhibit in the United States. The event already is stocked with a variety of local and corporate sponsors and the downtown community often relies on the extra foot traffic to boost its January traffic.

If the weather won't cooperate, Walton said, there still will be plenty for visitors to do in Kellogg Park when the event opens Jan. 20, including a variety of interactive exhibits that won't require such wintry conditions.

Among those, Walton said, is the McDonald's Winter Fun Zone with outdoor sports exhibits, coordinated with Sun & Snow. The three-day festival also will include appearances from stars of upcoming shows including Cirque du Soleil's Quidam and Super Grover from Sesame Street Live, who will appear at the event's Jan. 20 opening ceremonies.

Technologically inclined visitors might enjoy the festival's mobile video game system, which allows users to sit on ice while playing the latest software offerings. The event also will feature live music from the Shawn Riley Band and more food options than previous years, Walton said.

In his third year of promoting the event, Walton says he always is looking at ways to keep the 30-year-old festival fresh — and immune to woeful weather.

"(Just looking at ice sculptures) is like a museum to me," Walton said. "I’d rather shake it up and have people feel and touch and taste and do."

Still, he isn't overlooking the event's frozen roots and the striking sculptures that are curved during the duration of the festival.

The event was founded in 1983 by Scott Lorenz and later run by Michael Watts for 19 years.

"(Watts) did some amazing work over the years growing it into this world-class event," Walton said. "He was very focused on ice sculptures and blew people’s minds with the amount of art and talent he could bring to Plymouth every year."

Walton, who took over in 2010, is just the third promoter in the festival's long history, and he says he hopes to help keep it running at least another 30 years with the support of local businesses.

"I'm happy I was able to be involved with the event during this 30th year," he said. "Twenty-seven years before (2010), I was a lucky guy that got to come down as a spectator."

As read on: http://plymouth-mi.patch.com/articles/plymouth-ice-festival-official-hopes-for-wintry-weather

Can an old auto plant come back to life?

2012-01-12T11:18:00.000-05:00

The General Motors Corp. stamping plant in suburban Grand Rapids was born in the Great Depression and died in the last recession. Now West Michigan government and economic development officials are betting that the site will enjoy an economic revival.

Eighteen months after demolition began on the 2 million-square-foot factory, the site is nearly cleared and will be ready for a prospective manufacturer by July, Wyoming City Manager Curtis Holt said. The city and its partners are embarking on a marketing campaign to attract one or two large employers.

The plant is among 105 auto manufacturing sites in Michigan that have closed since 1979 and one of 61 that remain vacant, according to a recent study by the Ann Arbor-based Center for Automotive Research.

General Motors Corp. opened the stamping plant on 36th Street in 1936, 23 years before Wyoming became a city. Over the decades, the plant was repeatedly expanded and updated.

In 2005, the plant received its last tax abatement when it installed $200 million worth of new presses.

That's why Holt was shocked when he received a call from the plant's comptroller in October 2008 alerting him that it was slated for closing as part of GM's bankruptcy reorganization. The Wyoming plant, known for its relatively low cost and high productivity, paid $2.5 million in personal and city property taxes each year — about 17 percent of the city's budget.

A stakeholders committee considered converting the nearly 92-acre site into an industrial park but decided that a better strategy was to lure one or two large manufacturers.

At its peak, the plant employed about 3,000 workers, but its workforce had declined to about 2,000 a decade ago — still one of the area's largest employers.

Whatever company ends up locating on the site might employ 1,000, maybe 1,500, said Chris Brochert, a partner with Bloomfield Hills-based Lormax Stern, which plans to develop the site.

"We're going to be very discriminating about the kind of business we put there," he said.

The site already has drawn "a lot" of interest from potential buyers, Brochert said, but he declined to identify them. Its location in West Michigan between Detroit and Chicago makes it highly desirable, he said.

"A lot of people seem to think Grand Rapids is the shining star in Michigan," Brochert said.

Lormax Stern acquired the property from Motors Liquidation Co., which was formed by GM during the bankruptcy. In July, Lormax Stern sold the property to the city of Wyoming for $1 but retained development rights.

To attract a buyer, the company and city are working with The Right Place, the Grand Rapids area's economic development agency.

"It's the top of my hit parade," said Right Place President Birgit Klohs. "This is a very special site."

What makes it special, she said, is the infrastructure, including its location next to the U.S. 131 freeway, an adjacent rail line, an electrical substation and water, sewer and natural-gas lines.

The Right Place recently hired Indianapolis-based Applied Marketing to develop an interactive video and print materials promoting the site. The property would be ideal for companies in alternative energy, aerospace and other high-tech manufacturing, Klohs said.

"There are still industries that need a substantial piece of property like this," she said — but added, "not as many as 15 or 20 years ago. There may only be a dozen companies that would be interested. We want to find them."

The property was grandfathered in as a brownfield site before Gov. Rick Snyder and the Legislature repealed that tax credit program at the end of 2011, Holt said. Wyoming can offer another incentive, he said.

"Because we own the property, we're prepared to offer a deal on the site," Holt said.

He, Klohs and Brochert agreed that it could take a few years to find a large employer suitable for the site.

"Our hope is to restore the tax base," Holt said, "but our big hope is to restore those jobs. I'm not sure we'll ever match the amount of taxes. I'm not sure we'll match the number of jobs. But we're going to try our darnedest."

As read on: http://www.crainsdetroit.com/article/20120111/FREE/120119961/can-an-old-auto-plant-come-back-to-life-west-michigan-community-aims#

More unveiling at the NAIAS: Nissan Pathfinder Concept

2012-01-10T18:41:00.000-05:00

It has been a busy week so far at the North American International Auto Show with
the unveiling of several new vehicles and concept cars. Like the Nissan Pathfinder Concept, it takes all of Pathfinder’s traditional SUV hallmarks and wraps them in a new platform and dramatic new aerodynamic design.

With thoughtful technology, comfortable seating for seven and ample cargo room, the 4-wheel drive Pathfinder Concept previews the next-gen production Pathfinder that is scheduled to go on sale next fall.

Visit for more details on this All-New Pathfinder: http://www.nissanusa.com/all-new-pathfinder/

2012 North American International Auto Show Is HERE!!!

2012-01-09T15:58:00.000-05:00

It's that time of year again!!
The displays are set and the vehicles are HERE!! This week the Press, Industry and Charity Previews
will be taking place. Then the show opens to the public THIS SATURDAY!

Show Dates & Times
Saturday, January 14 - Saturday, January 21, 2012
9am-10pm

Sunday, January 22, 2012
9am-7pm

Ticket Prices
Adults: $12 per person
E-Tickets: $12 per person
Any Day Pass, Group Ticket: $8 with purchase of 30 tickets or more
Seniors: $6 (65 and older)
Children: (7-12 years old; 6 and under free with parent or guardian)

Location
Cobo Center, One Washington Boulevard, Detroit, MI 48226

Visit www.NAIAS.com or follow the NAIAS on their facebook page this year and get up to the minute news on the latest and greatest releases and announcements as this years event gets into full swing!

Chrysler to bring back Dodge Dart

2012-01-05T16:23:00.000-05:00

Chrysler is to resurrect the Dodge Dart, launching an updated version of the sporty compact model at next month's North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

The US automaker confirmed December 6 that the Dart, a 1960s classic, will be reborn as a 2013 four-door sedan based on the Alfa Romeo Giulietta, a model sold in Europe by Chrysler's parent firm Fiat.

Further details were sparse, although Chrysler did confirm that the vehicle would be offered with a choice of three engines, a 1.4-liter turbocharged MultiAir engine or a 2.0-liter/2.4-liter Tigershark 16-valve variant.

Styling will be 'unmistakably' Dodge, with front crosshair grille, full-width LED tailamps, a dual exhaust, projector headlamps and fog lamps and a longer and wider body form than the Giulietta, to suit the American market.

The model is set to hit showrooms in the first half of 2012, following its debut at the Detroit show, which runs January 9-22.

The Dodge Dart is the latest resurrected nameplate to join the automaker's lineup after the Charger and Challenger, and is likely to inspire plenty of passion from fans of the brand -- the original Dart, produced from 1960-1976, was highly popular and is still regarded as one of the most successful compacts ever introduced to the US.

With America's drivers now downsizing more than ever for models such as the Chevrolet Cruze and Ford Focus, Chrysler will be hoping the Dart can recapture the appeal once again.

As read on: http://www.nydailynews.com/autos/chrysler-bring-back-dodge-dart-north-american-international-auto-show-detroit-article-1.989131#ixzz1icKsd1Y5

Eleven Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Fiat Vehicles Named Top Safety Picks

2011-12-30T13:58:00.001-05:00

Eleven 2012 Chrysler Group vehicles -- up from nine 2011 models -- earned a Top Safety Pick from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

Senior VP for Engineering Scott Kunselman said the IIHS ratings for the 11 vehicles "underscores our commitment to engineering safety and security across all vehicle segments."

Among the latest safety innovations that are standard or available on many models is SafetyTec, which includes ParkSense rear park assist, Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Path detection.

The 11 vehicles with IIHS Top Safety Picks:

Chrysler

    Town & Country (right)
    300
    200 (only 4-door models)

Dodge

    Grand Caravan
    Durango
    Charger
    Journey -- named a Top Safety Pick for the fourth straight year
    Avenger -- named a Top Safety Pick for the fourth straight year

Jeep®

    Grand Cherokee
    Patriot (with optional side torso airbags)

Fiat

    500 (made after July 2011)

As read on: http://blog.chryslerllc.com/blog.do?p=entry&id=1656

5 MORE Days To get GREAT Year End SAVINGS And be Eligable to WIN $5,000!

2011-12-28T18:41:00.000-05:00

Visit Dick Scott Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Plymouth
or Dick Scott Motor Mall in Fowlerville
Before January 3rd, 2012 to take advantage of our 2011 BIG FINISH EVENT!
When you purchase or LEASE ANY NEW OR PRE-OWNED VEHICLE you will also be
eligible to WIN $5,000!!!

That's Right ONE LUCKY WINNER AT EACH STORE will
WIN $5,000 CASH!!

Just be one of the first 100 Customers to purchase or lease a new or pre-owned vehicle at Dick Scott Motor Mall
or one of the first 150 customers to purchase or lease a new or pre-owned vehicle at Dick Scott Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram BEFORE January 3rd, 2012 for your Chance at the $5,000 CASH!!

Visit
Dick Scott Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram
684 W Ann Arbor Rd
Plymouth, MI 48170
734-451-2110

Or

Dick Scott Motor Mall
3030 Fowlervill Rd
Fowlerville, MI 48836
517-223-3721

Top 10 things you need to know about the 2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8:

2011-12-27T18:58:00.000-05:00

It really is capable of being the bargain version of the Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG.
Power for the Chrysler 300 SRT8 comes from a 6.4 liter HEMI V8 making 470-hp with a maximum torque of 470 lb-ft – an increase of 45 horsepower and 50 lb-ft over the 6.1 liter HEMI V8 it replaces.
The engine is mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission with steering wheel mounted paddle shifters and a rear-wheel-drive or AWD system.
0 to 60 mph in the high 4-second range; the quarter mile comes high 12-second range; 0-100-0 mph in less than 16 seconds – and a top speed of 175 mph.
Stopping power comes from 14.2 inch (front) and 13.8 inch (rear) vented/slotted rotors with four-piston Brembo calipers painted in silver finish.
A full-color graphic EVIC (Electronic Vehicle Information Center), allows you to keep track of how the car is performing while you drive. Shown on the 8.4-inch instrument touchscreen panel you can store your 0-60, one-eighth mile and quarter-mile times, your 60-0 braking distance, and your g-force distribution.
It features a new adaptive damping suspension (ADS) system that allows you to pick from Auto and Sport mode. In Sport mode, the Chrysler 300 SRT8, the damping system rebound and compression is locked to the higher damping rate
Owners of any Chrysler Group SRT vehicle will get a one day of professional driving instruction from the Richard Petty Driving Experience as part of the SRT Track Experience.
Fuel-economy for the 300 SRT8 comes in at 14/23 mpg (city/highway) or 17 mpg combined. Annual fuel-cost is estimated at $3,203 if you drive 15,000 miles a year (based on 45% highway, 55% city driving)
Prices start at $47,995. Comparatively, a BMW 528i with a 240-hp 4-cylinder turbo starts at $46,700, a Mercedes-Benz E350 starts at $50,490 and the Audi A6 3.0 TFSI starts at $49,900.

As read on: http://www.egmcartech.com/2011/12/06/top-10-things-you-need-to-know-about-the-2012-chrysler-300-srt8/

Happy 25th Anniversary to Steve Barkovich - Service Technician

2011-12-19T17:16:00.001-05:00

Today we celebrated Steve's 25 year anniversary with Dick Scott Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram!
Thanks Steve for all that you do; you are an Important Member of the
Dick Scott "Best Shot" Team!

The Canton Cheifs and Dick Scott Automotive Group Co-Host Toys for Tots Drive

2011-12-15T11:15:00.001-05:00

The Canton Chiefs are thinking about more than hockey this time of year.

Canton's varsity hockey club teamed up with Dick Scott Automotive and Toys for Tots to help make the holidays special for families around the metro-Detroit area. During their Dec. 9 game against Novi at Arctic Edge Arena in Canton, the players, their families, and fans in attendance were encouraged to bring toys to donate to children in need.

"We understand the joy something like this can bring to a child's life, especially during these challenging economic times," said Canton coach Jeremy Majszak.

Dick Scott Automotive chipped in with $10 coupons for oil changes for every toy that was donated to the cause that night.

Majszak was also happy to see who else showed up with toys to help support the cause.
"All of our boys and all of our parents and some of the fans had brought [toys], and what was a real classy, really good thing - the Novi team also brought toys," Majszak said. "I think every single kid that got off that bus had a toy in their hand."

Cheryl Greenshields, a parent of one of the Canton players, initiated the event.

"That was something she said she would like to do," Majszak said. "And of course, we had no problem doing that and wanted to so she set it up…it was really good to collect that many toys."

Coach Majszak feels that this is something Canton might do for years to come...

As read on: http://mihockeynow.com/2011/12/canton-chiefs-hold-toy-drive/#.TuoRlQT16ic.blogger

Get your Polaris Utility Vehicle!

2011-12-14T15:44:00.000-05:00

Take advantage of the great year end Polaris Deals this Month!
If you are looking for a new Polaris 4x4 or Side x Side now is a great time to do it!

Dick Scott's Classic Motorcycles is OPEN

Tuesday-Friday 10am-7pm

and

Saturday 10am-5pm

We have a GREAT Selection of Polaris Utility Vehicles, Gear & Accessories!

Come on in and check out all the New Inventory and get some great Year End Deals!

Winter is almost here take advantage of great pricing on Snow Plow Accessories too!

Dick Scott's Classic Motorcycles and Powersports

36534 Plymouth Rd.

Livonia, MI 48150

734-524-8000

Thank you for another successful Toys for Tots Drive!

2011-12-13T11:39:00.000-05:00

A Big "Thank You" to all our generous employee's, customers and community members
who took time to donate to this years Toys for Tots Drive! Usually we fill up vehicles in our
showroom with our toy donations but do to this years construction project we didn't have any
vehicles inside to fill. We did however still collect plenty of new, unwrapped toys for
kids of all ages to enjoy this holiday season!

Our Toys for Tots drive is over for this year and all the toys are being picked up today to
allow time to get them to their new homes in time for Christmas.

Although our drive has ended there are still ways to donate to this great cause!!
Visit www.ToysforTots.org to make your donation today.

Dick Scott Automotive Group December 2011 Holiday Hours

2011-12-08T21:15:00.000-05:00

Friday, December 23rd – Regular Business Hours
Saturday, December 24th – CLOSED
Sunday, December 25th - CLOSED
Monday, December 26th – Regular Business Hours
(Dick Scott's Classic Motorcycles CLOSED on Mondays during the winter months)
Friday, December 30th – Regular Business Hours
Saturday, December 31st – Regular Business Hours
Sunday, January 1st - CLOSED
Monday, January 2nd – Regular Business Hours
(Dick Scott's Classic Motorcycles CLOSED on Mondays during the winter months)

YOUR Chance to WIN $5,000 is HERE!!

2011-12-07T10:56:00.000-05:00

Looking for a chance to win some extra Holiday Cash this year?
Need a New or Pre-Owned vehicle at a great price?

Well hurry into Dick Scott Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Plymouth
or Dick Scott Motor Mall in Fowlerville this moth and get BOTH!!

We are giving away $5,000 Holiday Cash to one Lucky Winner at
our Plymouth location and one Lucky Winner at our Fowlerville location!
Hurry in now the contest is limited to the 1st 100 customers at
Dick Scott Motor Mall and the 1st 150 customers at Dick Scott Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram!
Thankfully it is only the 7th of December so there are plenty of spots open still!

Take advantage of our Year End Big Finish Event AND be eligible to WIN $5,000!!
The contest runs from NOW until January 3, 2012.
On January 4, 2012 we will be announcing both winners!

To be eligible all you need to do is purchase or lease a New or Pre-Owned
vehicle at Dick Scott Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram or Dick Scott Motor Mall
between now and January 3, 2012! One entry per household.

* THERE IS ABSOLUTELY GOING TO BE A WINNER!
* YOUR ODDS ARE AT MOST 1-150!! (Those are amazing odds!)
*GET A GREAT VEHICLE AT AN AMAZING PRICE TOO!

Check out our HUGE inventory selection at www.DickScott.com!!

Toys for Tots Event at the Canton vs Novi Hockey game at Arctic Edge Arena

2011-12-05T17:31:00.000-05:00

Canton Varsity Hockey and Dick Scott Automotive Group are teaming up with Toys for Tots in making the holidays a little brighter for local children in need. The team will be collecting new, unwrapped toys at the Canton vs. Novi game being held at the Arctic Edge Arena in Canton on Friday, December 9, 2011. Dick Scott Automotive Group will be providing $10 coupons towards an oil change for each donated toy.

Canton Varsity Hockey is proud to be collecting Toys for the Toys for Tots program. “We understand the joy something like this can bring to a child’s life, especially during these challenging economic times,” says Jeremy Majszak, Head Coach Canton Varsity Hockey. “The holiday season will no doubt be hard for some families. We want the children to have a nice Christmas. Canton hockey is so much more than just hockey. Together we can make a difference.”

About Toys for Tots: Over the 62 years of the U. S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program, Marines have distributed more than 400 million toys to more than 188 million needy children. This charitable endeavor has made U. S. Marines the unchallenged leader in looking after less fortunate children at Christmas.

As read on: http://pcep.pccs.k12.mi.us/node/2446

December 7 Good Morning Plymouth Breakfast featuring Dr. Jeremy Hughes

2011-12-02T10:36:00.000-05:00

Last Opportunity to Register

Date: Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Time: 7:30 - 9:00 a.m.
Place: Hilton Garden Inn
Featuring: Dr. Jeremy Hughes,
New Superintendent
Plymouth-Canton Community Schools
Networking . Breakfast . Speaker

Our School district is one of the major factors that contribute to the fantastic quality of life we enjoy in the Plymouth Community. There has been a major amount of controversy around the lack of cohesion among the school board members that led to the dismissal of the previous superintendent, how to handle the district's finances and the election of four new members. To help guide the district, Dr. Jeremy Hughes was brought in on an interim basis to lead the schools through this turbulent period.

Dr. Hughes has agreed to stay until June of 2013 to see the process through. He will discuss with us the plans being considered to improve the district and maintain our status as a premier district for producing outstanding students. He will also be touching on the challenges all educators face in today's climate and how we must keep focused on advancing the level of education districts provide.

Dr. Hughes has served in all levels of education including extended stints as the Superintendent in two Michigan school districts. He also concluded his career working at the Michigan Department of Education for five years.

To RSVP, please respond no later than December 5 to teri@plymouthmich.org or call 734-453-1540. The breakfast will be from 7:30 to 9:00 a.m. and the cost is just $12. Food will be served from 7:45-8:15.

Cancellations must be received 48 hours prior to the event, since the Chamber is liable for all meals.

The event will be held at the Hilton Garden Inn at 14600 Sheldon Rd. The hotel is located just north of the M-14 exit.

As read on: http://campaign.r20.constantcontact.com/render?llr=fbbvrvcab&v=001aqkzoXHU1G3mhXlQIAX866oU1U93FV4i5IZprr46A1HS3kv_C3aHK7vfGPqKtaZLilz9H3jOh_j4sUc7KK0cQeBacRwLi5zh5iWFRbvhotyGdi-kWo8YMxQVzVOJxi8FEPERYuptJ5POwL4WUBfABwYCACWEMI9B

Whalers Host Blood Drive and $5 Fridays, Then Teddy Bear Toss on Saturday

2011-12-02T10:08:00.000-05:00

The first-place Plymouth Whalers (17-8-2-1) spend the next two weekends at home, starting Friday against Sault Ste. Marie (14-11-1-1) and Saturday against Guelph (12-9-1-3). Both games start at 7:05 p.m. at Compuware Arena.

Each game will be broadcast on WSDP-FM (88.1) starting at 6:45 p.m. on both evenings.
Besides the action on the ice, they'll be plenty of activities around the arena on both evenings.
From noon-6 p.m. on Friday, the Whalers are hosting a blood drive in conjunction with the American Red Cross. Although some fans have booked appointments between noon and 2 p.m., there are plenty of appointments available from 2-5 p.m.

Anyone attempting to give blood will receive two tickets for an upcoming Whalers game.
Fans can book an appointment using this link.

The goal is to break the Whalers' blood drive record of 48 pints.

Friday is another $5 Fridays night, sponsored by WYCD-FM (99.5). More people increasingly are taking advantage of $5 Fridays as the season wears on.

On Saturday, Plymouth host Guelph in the Whalers annual Teddy Bear Toss. Fans are cordially requested to bring a teddy bear or stuffed animal to the game.

The first time the Whalers score on Saturday - and Alex Aleardi scored a little over three minutes into the Teddy Bear game against London last season - throw the bear on the ice, and with the help of the Plymouth Community United Way, homes will be found for the animals.

As they have in past years, the Whalers Booster Club will be selling teddy bears before the game.
Next week, the Whalers host Belleville (17-9-0-0) on Friday and Sarnia (15-6-1-4) on Saturday before finishing up the pre-Christmas portion of the schedule Dec. 16 in Oshawa and Dec. 17 in Belleville.

As read on: http://plymouth-mi.patch.com/articles/whalers-host-blood-drive-and-5-fridays-then-teddy-bear-toss-on-saturday

Our 4th Annual Toys for Tots Drive is still going on until Monday, December 12th, 2011

2011-12-01T15:31:00.002-05:00

We are excited to participate in this great cause and we are off to a great start again this year!
There is still time for you to bring your New, Unwrapped toys into ANY Dick Scott Automotive Group Location.
(Please no stuffed animals as they can no longer be distributed because they can harbor germs.)

As our economy continues to change we are finding more and more families each year struggling to make ends meet not to mention all the added expenses the holiday's bring. This generous cause is making HUGE Differences in so many local families lives!! We have the most generous Employee's, Customer's, AND Community Members around! Thanks to all of you who continue to make our Toys for Tots Drive so successful year after year!!! We are looking forward to another amazing season thanks to all of you!!

PLEASE NOTE: Toys for Tots is always in need of gifts for 9 to 12 year olds, both boys and girls. Craft or hobby kits, makeup kits, electronics and CD's, are always great choices!

Visit any Dick Scott Location:
Dick Scott Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram
684 W Ann Arbor Rd
Plymouth, MI 48170
(734) 451-2121
www.DickScottDodge.com

Dick Scott Nissan
42175 Michigan Avenue
Canton, MI 48188
(734) 495-1000
www.dickscottnissan.com

Dick Scott Motormall
3030 Fowlerville Rd
Fowlerville, MI 48836
(517) 223-3721
www.dickscottmotormall.com

Dick Scott Classic Motorcycles
36534 Plymouth Rd
Livonia, MI 48150
(734) 542-8000
www.dickscottclassicmotorcycles.com

www.DickScott.com

Celani buys into Dick Scott dealerships; duo plan growth

2011-11-28T13:30:00.008-05:00

We are excited to announce that casino investor, vineyard owner and motorcycle dealer Tom Celani is broadening his base of businesses to include cars.

The West Bloomfield Township entrepreneur has acquired a 50 percent stake in the Dick Scott Chrysler dealerships in Plymouth and Fowlerville. The new entity, co-owned by Celani and Dick Scott, plans to go into growth mode, expecting to buy one dealership a year.

The new business entity, Luna Dick Scott LLC, will own Dick Scott Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Plymouth and Dick Scott Motor Mall in Fowlerville. The deal is to close this week. Financial terms were not disclosed.

The group also hired a CFO, Jim Eagan, a consultant in the automotive dealership practice at Southfield-based Plante & Moran PLLC.

Scott said the dealership is on pace to sell 1,100 cars in Plymouth this year and 700 in Fowlerville. The dealerships have combined projected revenue of $100 million.

Celani owns Farmington Hills-based MotorCity Harley-Davidson and Bloomfield Hills-based MotorCity Power Sports. Through Novi-based Luna Entertainment, he owns casinos in Colorado and Oklahoma. He also owns TC Vineyards Inc., a Napa Valley vineyard and winemaker.

It's that roster of businesses that Scott said makes him look forward to Celani's marketing ideas.

"Tom's got his hands in a lot of businesses; he's a true entrepreneur," Scott said.

The dealership was founded by Scott in 1974. Over the years he's included members of his family as well. His daughter, Nicole Gallagher, and his sons, Judson and Jason, work with the dealerships.

As Scott and Celani look for new investments, they're going to be in a market that has gone from a buyer's market to a seller's market, said Daniell Patterson, a principal specializing in car dealership consulting in the Southfield office of UHY Advisors Inc.

"The dust has settled; the dealers who survived are returning to profitability," he said. "And the major players are looking to get out there and make investments."

Daniel Duggan: (313) 446-0414, dduggan@crain.com. Twitter: @d_duggan

As read on: http://www.crainsdetroit.com/article/20111127/SUB01/311279970/celani-buys-into-dick-scott-dealerships-duo-plan-growth

Santa is COMING TO DOWNTOWN TONIGHT!!!

2011-11-25T13:30:00.000-05:00

Santa will arrive in Kellogg Park TONIGHT at 6:00 p.m. The Plymouth Community Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring Santa's arrival ceremony! Stay for the Grand Tree Lighting when Santa arrives tonight!

Children can visit with Santa from November 25 to December 23. Visiting hours are:

Fri., Nov. 25 - 6:30 (approximate ) until 8:30 p.m.
Sat., Nov. 26 - noon to 4:00 p.m.
Sat., Dec. 3 - noon to 5:00 p.m.
Fri., Dec. 9 - 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Sat., Dec. 10 - noon to 5:00 p.m.
Sat., Dec. 17 - noon to 5:00 p.m.
Sun., Dec. 18 - noon to 5:00 p.m.
Fri., Dec. 23 - 4:30 to 8:30 p.m.

There are lots of great family activities going on in Downtown Plymouth this Holiday Season!

- Walk through the Christmas Tree Display in Kellogg Park going on NOW throught December 31st!

- Gingerbread House Display NOW Through December 23rd.

- "A Red Ryder Christmas Story" Now through December 31st. at 155 S. Main Street Plymouth

For Complete details on these events and more CLICK HERE!! You can also call the Chamber of Commerce at 734-453-1540.

We are an official Drop-off location for A Million Thanks!!

2011-11-24T09:27:00.000-05:00

A Million Thanks

is a year-round campaign to show our appreciation for our U.S. Military Men
and Women, past and present, for their sacrifices, dedication, and
service to our country through our letters, emails, cards, and prayers.

We are so excited to be receiving so many letters and holiday cards
this Holiday Season!!If you have letters or Cards that you would like to get to
our troops just drop them off at ANY of our Locations!!

If you don't live nearby one of our locations, here is the direct address to
A Million Thanks so your items get to our Troops in time for the Holidays!

A Million Thanks

17853 Santiago Blvd. #107-355

Villa Park, CA 92861

Visit www.DickScott.com to find our closest location to you!

Check out www.AMillionThanks.org for more information and
drop off locations in other states and to see how wonderful this program really is!

We at Dick Scott Automotive Group are so thankful to all our service men and
women and this is just one of they ways we try to give back
to those fighting for us everyday!

SAVE BIG at Dick Scott Classic Motorcycles Black Friday WEEKEND Sales EVENT!

2011-11-23T18:16:00.000-05:00

We are STOCKED to the Max and Ready to save you
TONS of money on your Holiday Shopping this year!!

*First 30 People to visit us before 10:30am receive a
FREE \$10 GIFT CARD!

*Buy ANY Fulmer Helmet and receive a

FREE pair of Coldweather Riding Gloves!

Get EVERYTHING you nee for the Riding Enthusiast

on your Holiday List!

Dick Scott's Classic Motorcycles

36534 Plymouth Rd

Livonia, MI 48150

734-542-8000

www.ClassicMotorcyclesDetroit.com

Small Business Saturday is THIS SATURDAY!!

2011-11-21T08:26:00.000-05:00

It's ALMOST HERE!!! One of the biggest shopping weekends of the YEAR!!!
This year think SMALL to make a BIG DIFFERENCE!!!

Small Business Saturday is NEXT SATURDAY, November 26, 2011!! This time of the year
shopping SMALL can make a HUGE difference to a Small Business Owner. We are
pledging to Shop Small and we hope all of you will too!

Visit ANY Dick Scott Automotive Group Location during this years Shop Small,
Small Business Saturday Event, and when you use your American Express
you may qualify for a $25.00 statement credit!!

More than 200 organizations have already joined American Express OPEN, the company's small business unit, in declaring the Saturday after Thanksgiving as Small Business Saturday. Join us in making this "Small" event "BIG"!!

We hope you will shop "Small" this Saturday because in this economy a few purchases
from our local businesses is going to make a HUGE Difference in A LOT of peoples lives!!

See you Next Saturday!

Visit www.SmallBusinessSaturday.com for more information.

CLICK HERE
if you are a Small Business to get your FREE Tools, from Small Business Saturday, to promote your Small Biz!

We are giving AWAY $5,000 CASH!!!

2011-11-18T14:44:00.000-05:00

There is still time left to have a chance at WINNING $5,000!!!

Take delivery of ANY vehicle, New or Pre-Owned by November 30th, 2011 and
be eligible to WIN $5,000 CASH!! We've done it before and we are doing it again!!
Who couldn't use an extra $5,000 CASH this time of year?!?

Visit Dick Scott Motormall

3030 Fowlerville Rd

Fowlerville, MI 48836

BEFORE November 30th for your chance at $5,000 CASH!!!

Limited to the first 100 customers!!!

(we haven't hit 100 yet so HURRY on over!!!)

Dick Scott Collision & Auto Glass Sponsors 2011 Buck Pole

2011-11-17T11:36:00.001-05:00

The fourth annual Williamston Buck Pole kicks off Monday, Nov. 15, from 4-9 p.m., with additional scoring Nov. 20 from 4-9 p.m., and during the Grand Finale on Sunday, Nov. 27 from 4-9 p.m.
All events take place at Merindorf Meats, 500 Williamston Center Road in Williamston. Additional sponsors are still welcome.

The cost to enter the contest is $10 per deer. Scoring will be in line with Boone & Crockett "gross" standards. All deer scored will only be scored once. Hunters must obey all local ordinances regarding possession of weapons in city limits. All entries must be legally tagged and completely field-dressed. All deer must have been harvested in the legal 2011 hunting season.

As read on: http://www.lansingstatejournal.com/article/20111113/WILLIAMSTON01/111130343/Williamston-buck-pole-kicks-off-Nov-15

Hunters must provide information about the area, time and person who harvested the deer.
Deer brought in must be hung on the pole for the remainder of the contest time that day, weather permitting.
Hunters must register their deer by 8 p.m. on Nov. 27, to be considered for judging. Awards for men, women, and youth in: overall score typical; overall score non-typical; heaviest antlered; heaviest non-antlered; antlers only. Every youth hunter will receive a prize.

This year's sponsors include: Mathews Bows; The Artisan Circle; Bill's Wrecker; Hunt Wiser; ATSKO; Wilderness Dreams; Breath-Taker; Whitetail Adrenaline; Joey's Pet Outfitters; Tina Brookhouse Studio; Brookshire Inn; Carquest; Fifth Third Bank; J&B Shoes; Darex Work Sharp; Edward Jones, Benjamin Eichler; Citizens Bank; Kiwanis Club of Williamston; Sun Theatre; True Value Hardware; Williamston Masonic Lodge; GLS Heating; Greenstone Farm Credit; John Donohoe; Lakota Electric; Grand Rental; Wood & Sons; RW Firearms; The Ammo Dump; Retroduck; Dick Scott Collision; and Wrangler Jeans.
For more information, contact the Williamston Area Chamber of Commerce, (517) 655-1549, info@williamston.org.

Ford Road/I-275 interchange condition progress

2011-11-16T10:14:00.000-05:00

As many of you know, a Senate Transportation Hearing was held at Summit on the Park on November 1st. The Senate Transportation Committee conducted the hearing to learn about the condition of the Ford Road/I-275 interchange. The focus was on the need for improvement in that area, and to obtain support for a grant available through the United States Department of Transportation. The grant dollars would fund a solution to the congestion in that area. The result of the hearing was that the committee passed a resolution to memorialize Congress and the U.S. Department of Transportation to approve a grant for a project at the I-275 and Ford Road interchange under the Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery Discretionary Grant program. The concurrent Resolution passed the full Senate on Tuesday, 11/8/11. It will now move on to the House of Representatives. We will keep you informed on the progress of the Resolution.
Our new trustee, Greg Demopoulos, was sworn in at the October 28th board meeting. Greg comes to us with an abundance of community service experience, including the Merit Commission, Planning Commission, Zoning Board of Appeals, and the Canton Soccer Club Board of Directors. We are excited to welcome Greg to the Board of Trustees.
We are making good progress with the budget. All of the cuts and concessions that were made in the last year have put us on track to weather the decline in taxable value and loss of state shared revenue. We will continue with our furlough days for 2012, and our budget is currently being prepared through 2014.
We have finished compiling our focus group data related to our measurables (tangible data that gives the community a clear snapshot of how tax dollars are spent, how services are maintained, and where we stand in comparison to other communities). The information is now available online at www.canton-mi.org on the Supervisor’s page. If you have any questions about the information, feel free to email or call the Supervisor’s office at 734-394-5188.
Make sure to take advantage of the Harvest Market on November 20th from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Preservation Park. Pick up items for your Thanksgiving meal along with all your Market favorites. Also, don’t forget to kick off the holiday season on November 30th with the annual Township Tree Lighting Event! The "official" tree will be lit in front of the Summit on the Park at 6:30 p.m. The event runs from 6 – 8:30 p.m.
There is nothing like the holiday season in Canton. I hope everyone takes the opportunity to visit one of our many wonderful restaurants for a warm bowl of soup, get your Christmas shopping done within our great selection of stores, or take in a show at the beautiful Village Theater. Happy Holidays!
As read on: http://hosted.verticalresponse.com/170399/ce06df7976/57000016/6047e6c92f/

2011 Toys for Tots Drive is going on NOW!

2011-11-15T10:42:00.001-05:00

Dick Scott Automotive Group is Hosting our
4th Annual Toys for Tots Drive!

Our last three years have been a huge success and we have been able to
donate TRUCK LOADS of Toys to kids in need!

We will be collecting NEW, UNWRAPPED toys
NOW thru MONDAY, December 12th, 2011.
(Please no stuffed animals as they can no longer be distributed because they can harbor germs.)

As our economy contunes to change we are finding more and more families each year struggling to make ends meet not to mention all the added expenses the holiday's bring. This generous cause is making HUGE Differences in so many local families lives!! We have the most generous Employee's, Customer's, AND Community Members around! Thanks to all of you who continue to make our Toys for Tots Drive so successful year after year!!! We are looking forward to another amazing season thanks to all of you!!

" A BIG Thanks to all of you for Helping us make a difference!!!"

PLEASE NOTE: Toys for Tots is always in need of gifts for 9 to 12 year olds, both boys and girls. Craft or hobby kits, makeup kits, electronics and CD's, are always great choices!

Visit any Dick Scott Location:

Dick Scott Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram

684 W Ann Arbor Rd

Plymouth, MI 48170

(734) 451-2121

www.DickScottDodge.com

Dick Scott Nissan

42175 Michigan Avenue

Canton, MI 48188

(734) 495-1000

http://www.dickscottnissan.com

Dick Scott Motormall

3030 Fowlerville Rd

Fowlerville, MI 48836

(517) 223-3721

http://www.dickscottmotormall.com

Dick Scott Classic Motorcycles

36534 Plymouth Rd

Livonia, MI 48150

(734) 542-8000

http://www.dickscottclassicmotorcycles.com

www.DickScott.com

2012 Ram 1500 Special Service Reports for Duty

2011-11-09T13:21:00.000-05:00

Chrysler has spent much of 2011 releasing special-purpose versions of the Ram and its latest creation, the 2012 Ram 1500 Special Purpose serves a special purpose indeed. Among other things, this beefed up police-spec truck features an upgraded 220-amp alternator and an extra door support that allows departments to install ballistic material inside the doors.

Powering the Ram 1500 Special Purpose is the standard-issue 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 that makes the same 390 horsepower and 407 pound-feet of torque as in the civilian version and is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. A 3.92 ratio axle is the only one offered and four-wheel drive is standard as well. The four-door crew cab is the only cab offered, though the RamBox storage system is available for departments that find it useful.

Along with the stronger alternator, Chrysler fitted this ram with what it calls the Power Distribution Center, which is gets power directly by the battery through two 100-amp fuses. The PDC is designed specifically to power camera, computer, modem, and printer systems. Additionally, the Ram Special Purpose’s wiring harness is pre-designed to handle the usual variety of police accessories such as light bars, sirens, and radar.

Inside the cabin is a modified instrument cluster that includes a certified speedometer, an engine hour and idle hour meter, plus a 110-volt inverter. The center column is removed to add space, while the shifter moves to the steering column. As is typical in police vehicles, the rear bench seat is covered in vinyl while the front seats receive stain-resistant cloth upholstery.

Though few police departments need the 10,000-pound towing capability or 1455-pound payload capacity the Ram offers, rural outfits will appreciate the trucks durability and off-road capability and some will surely plan on allocating their purchasing budgets when the Special Service becomes available later this month.

As read on: http://wot.motortrend.com/2012-ram-1500-special-service-reports-for-duty-133893.html

The Ram 1500 Express Tailgate Sweepstakes- Only one truck brings the party

2011-11-07T18:55:00.000-05:00

Enter for your chance to win the football experinece of a lifetime! Win Tickets for you and three of your friends to Pasadena California where you will get Tickets to the Big New Years College Bowl!! PLUS $5,000 cash and ride in style in the all new ram 1500 express!

Just enter to win one incredible weekend!

Make sure to enter daily for additional chances to win.

Official Rules | Privacy Policy | RamTrucks.com
NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. A PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. RAM 1500 Express Sweepstakes starts 10/15/11 at 12:00 AM ET and ends 12/4/11 at 11:59:59 PM ET. Legal residents of 50 US/DC except AK & HI, 21 years or older only. Go to www.ram1500expresssweepstakes.com to enter and for Official Rules containing entry instructions, prize details, odds of winning, restrictions, etc. Void outside of above jurisdiction and where prohibited. Sponsor: Chrysler Group LLC. P.O. Box 21-8004, Auburn Hills, MI 48321.
Ram and HEMI^® are registered trademarks of Chrysler Group LLC.

Pledge your support for Small Business Saturday

2011-11-04T16:37:00.000-04:00

First there was Black Friday, then Cyber Monday. Now, there's the 2nd annual Small Business Saturday, the day people support small businesses. Pledge to Shop Small on Nov 26th. The 2nd annual Small Business Saturday is
a day dedicated to supporting small businesses on one of the busiest shopping weekends of the year!!

On November 26, millions of Americans will shop small at their favorite local stores and help fuel the economy. When we all shop small, it will be huge!

American Express wants to help you make a difference. Get a one-time $25 statement credit when you register an eligible American Express Card and use that Card for a purchase of $25 or more at a small business on November 26th. Registration is limited.

Check out www.SmallBusinessSaturday.com for more details!

2012 Indian Motorcycles – First Look

2011-11-03T13:16:00.000-04:00

Polaris Industries bought Indian last April, which hasn’t given the company much time to launch a completely reengineered, all-new line of 2012 Indian motorcycles. So it hasn’t. But three bikes will be offered for 2012: Vintage, Classic and Dark Horse—all three powered by Indian’s 105-inch Powerplus engine. That’s 1720cc in metric terms, running an undersquare 3.96 x 4.25-inch bore and stroke, with two pushrod-activated valves per jug and cooled in the time-honored fashion: air. The Indian Chief Vintage we tested in November, 2009, made 64.5 horsepower at 4550 rpm and 94.1 foot-pounds of peak torque at 3250. And while there were some sweet spots in the rev range with the non-counterbalanced 45-degree V-Twin, our main complaint was serious vibration in the less-sweet spots. According to our Indian PR contact, “over a dozen small improvements primarily on the minor technical side” have been made to the bikes, which we expect means the riding experience will be similar to what it was on our 2009.

MSRP for the top-line model remains in the same rarified ballpark for 2012. The Vintage, which comes with a windshield, a cool fringed leather seat and matching bags (also a removable pillion pad) is $35,999 in solid colors, with optional two-tone paint schemes $900 more. The Indian Chief Classic retails for $26,499 and dispenses with some of the Vintage’s gewgaws and furbelows, while the Dark Horse (matte black) is $27,999. (If those are out of your price range, Indian does have some very nice T-shirts.)

Mark Blackwell, VP of Special Projects at Polaris, informs us that the company is not for now revealing any details about future Indian models, but that the feedback he’s been getting about the acquisition from around the world, including Europe and China, has been “incredibly positive.”

As read on: http://www.cycleworld.com/2011/11/02/2012-indian-motorcycles-first-look/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=2012-indian-motorcycles-first-look

REMINDER - WAYNE COUNTY HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE DROP-OFF DAY IN REDFORD

2011-11-01T10:34:00.000-04:00

LAST OPPORTUNITY IN 2011!

Wayne County will be conducting a Household Hazardous Waste and Electronic Waste Drop-off event this Saturday, November 5th from 8:00am to 2:00pm in Redford. The event will be held at the Redford DPW Yard, 12200 Beech Daly (South of I-96)

This event is your opportunity to rid your garage, basement, shed, etc., of items such as paints, stains, fertilizer, lawn & garden chemicals, antifreeze, gasoline, etc. In addition, electronic waste will be accepted including computers, monitors, printers, scanners, cell phones, fax machines, televisions, etc.
Additional information is available at the City of Livonia website www.ci.livonia.mi.us under Departments-DPW Public Service-Household Hazardous Waste

The Saturday, November 5th event is open only to residents of Wayne County and only residential household waste will be accepted.

Potential Five Mile Business Project Creates Buzz Nationally, Locally

2011-10-30T08:57:00.002-04:00

Details about the development of the area near Five Mile and Beck Roads were highlighted at a Northville Township Board meeting Thursday.

Recent buzz about the business development potential of the land near Five Mile and Beck Roads on the Northville/Plymouth border bubbled up at the Northville Township Board of Trustees meeting Thursday night.

According to trustees, Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder will sign Senate Bill 425, which proposes the sale of the vacant Robert Scott Correctional Facility property, within a couple of weeks.

"I get calls from offices statewide inquiring about the sale of this parcel," said Lisa Nocevino, Vice President of Strategic Communications Solutions, a Novi-based public relations firm which provides tactical support and development strategies to government clients. Nocevino was a guest at Thursday's meeting.

"This is not a buzz just here, it's a buzz in Washington as well," Nocevino said. "It's a world class parcel because of its location. There is a lot of interest being generated about the collaboration that's happening here."

Northville Township Trustee Marjorie Banner said the township has been in talks with Plymouth Township to develop ideas on how to best utilize the property as an industrial area.

"We've been working on this undertaking for awhile. We are excited about what's to come of this area," Banner said.

According to Nocevino, legislators support the collaborative efforts between the two townships.

"Due to tough economic conditions, cities should come together and try to strengthen the economy when they can," she said. "This is collaboration at its best."

One Northville Township resident in attendence at the meeting, however, said he would rather see the township put its attention on another vacant property two miles to the north.

"It amazes me how the buzz about the workings of the Five Mile project made it all the way to Washington while residents have been asking Northville Township to do something about the abandoned hospital that's on Seven Mile and Haggerty road for quite some time now," said Steve Emsley.

Emsely explained his paranoia of someone being severely hurt inside the vacant former mental hospital.

"It is in bad shape, the windows are out, the property is not secure. There has to be something done about this or something bad is going to happen," he said.

According to the board of trustees, 80 arrests have been made this year in attempts to keep the area safe, over-time patrols have been hired and trespassing ticket fines has been set at $220.

The board said that based on the township's budget, no further efforts can be made this time.

As read on: http://plymouth-mi.patch.com/articles/bot-meeting-unveils-governor-s-plan

NEW! 1st Annual Daddy Daughter Dance!

2011-10-29T08:50:00.001-04:00

Come dance the night away at the City of Plymouth Recreation Department's first annual Daddy Daughter Dance!

Dads, Uncles, and Grandfathers grab your little lady and get ready for an evening packed with dancing and memories! We will have a DJ on hand from Dramatic Dimensions Entertainment to keep you dancing all night long. Light refreshments and snacks will be served. Souvenir photos and packages will be available to order an additional cost. Semi-formal, dressy-casual attire recommended.

Spaces are still available but advance ticket purchase is required because space is limited. Sorry NO Walk-Ins will be accepted. Register now!

Registration is open & spaces are available!

Registration #: 346104.01
Location: Cultural Center Reception Room
Ages: All Ages
Fees: $10 each
Time: 6:30-8:30pm
Date: Saturday, February 4th

For more information contact the Recreation Department at: (734)455-6620 or visit: www.ci.plymouth.mi.us/RecreationSpecialEvents.

As read on: http://mi-plymouth.civicplus.com/list.aspx?MID=1910

Polaris Invests in Brammo Electric Motorcycles

2011-10-28T08:37:00.003-04:00

Polaris Industries Inc. has announced a minority investment in Brammo, an Ashland, Ore.-based maker of electric motorcycles. By investing in Brammo, Polaris obtains access to its proprietary electric vehicle powertrain technology, as well as exposure to the electric motorcycle market.

“We are excited to advance our electric vehicle capability by establishing Polaris as a business partner and part owner of Brammo, one of the most innovative and aggressive companies we have found in the electric motorcycle space,” says Scott Wine, Polaris CEO. “Our companies share a passion for performance, and we look forward to exploiting the numerous opportunities created by pairing Brammo’s industry-leading electric powertrain technology with Polaris’ vast array of market-leading powersports products. This is a small, but important, investment for Polaris in an electric vehicle market that we feel is poised for significant growth.”

Polaris is hardly new to electric vehicles. The Minnesota-based manufacturer currently produces the Ranger EV off-road vehicle and the Gem and Breeze neighborhood vehicles.

Founded in 2002, Brammo currently offers the Enertia line of motorcycles, capable of speeds in excess of 60 mph and claimed ranges up to 80 miles on a single charge. Brammo plans to expand its product line to include high-performance sport motorcycles capable of more than 100 miles on a single charge, as well as a full line of entry- to high-performance dirt and dual-sport motorcycles.

“We have always been impressed with Polaris’ leadership within the powersports industry. Polaris is a company founded on innovation and quality and, as such, their decision to partner with Brammo is a resounding endorsement of our technology,” says Brammo CEO and founder Craig Bramscher. “This is a terrific scenario for Brammo’s customers, as we bring Polaris’ legendary engineering, manufacturing, and customer service expertise to bear on our products.”

In addition to potentially utilizing Brammo technology in its own products, Polaris will collaborate with Brammo to grow its core business.

As read on: http://blog.motorcycle.com/2011/10/26/electric/polaris-invests-in-brammo-electric-motorcycles/

Safe Kids Releases First-of-Its Kind Halloween Research Study

2011-10-27T11:27:00.003-04:00

Click to See Larger Picture

"Twice As Many Child Pedestrians Are Killed While Walking on Halloween" ~ SafeKids.org Press Release 10/20/2011

Washington, DC - New Safe Kids research shows only one third of parents talk to their children annually about Halloween safety. To complete this first-of-its kind study on Halloween-safety, Safe Kids commissioned Harris Interactive to conduct a poll of 935 parents with children ages 12 and younger to assess their knowledge, attitudes and behaviors related to Halloween safety.

On average, twice as many child pedestrians are killed while walking on Halloween compared to other days of the year. On this potentially dangerous night of the year for child pedestrians, Safe Kids strongly recommends that parents prepare children to behave safely and for drivers to take extra precautions.

While most of the parent participants in the study have talked to their children about Halloween safety at some point, many have not made it an annual conversation. Safe Kids urges parents to engage in repeated discussions with each child, every year to reinforce safety messages and safe behaviors because of the risks they face on Halloween.

"Given children's limited attention spans, repeated and consistent messages about safe behaviors are key to preventing injuries," says Kate Carr, President and CEO of Safe Kids Worldwide. "By following the basic safety tips provided by Safe Kids, Halloween can be a fun and safe night for children of all ages."

According to the study, 40 percent of parents allow their child to use one or more unsafe item on Halloween such as a mask, loosing fitting clothing, and / or a sharp object - any of which could contribute to falls, burns or pedestrian injuries. These are preventable hazards that could be avoided by following Safe Kids' safety tips.

Another key finding of this report shows twelve percent of children five years of age or younger are permitted to trick-or-treat alone. Not only should these young children be accompanied by an adult, but it is also recommended by Safe Kids that no child under 12 years of age spend Halloween night navigating the streets unsupervised. This recommendation was made to protect children who often lack the maturity and cognitive ability to make appropriate decisions to accurately judge speeds and distance.

"It is alarming to hear that children ages five years and younger are trick-or-treating without adult supervision," added Carr. "If they are old enough and mature enough to trick-or-treat without an adult, parents should make sure children go out in groups and stick to a predetermined route with good lighting."

In preparation for Halloween, Safe Kids coalitions across the country will team up with Walk This Way program sponsor FedEx to provide kids with reflective materials to promote visibility, including zipper tags that can be attached to costumes and trick-or-treat bags, as well as important safety information to children, parents, and drivers. The Halloween study was made possible through funding provided by FedEx.

To ensure a safer celebration of Halloween, Safe Kids and FedEx recommend the following tips to parents and caregivers:

Trick-or-Treating Safety:

    Children under 12 should trick-or-treat and cross streets with an adult.
    Always walk on sidewalks or paths. If there are no sidewalks, walk facing traffic as far to the left as possible.
    Cross the street at corners, using traffic signals and crosswalks.
    Decorate costumes and bags with reflective tape or stickers and, choose light colored costumes that fit properly and avoid carrying sticks, swords, or other sharp objects.
    Check treats for signs of tampering before children are allowed to eat them. Candy should be thrown away if the wrapper is faded, torn, or unwrapped.

What Drivers Need to Know:

    Slow down and be especially alert in residential neighborhoods. Children are excited on Halloween and may move in unpredictable ways.
    Anticipate heavy pedestrian traffic and turn your headlights on early in the day so you can spot children from greater distances.
    Remember that costumes can limit children's visibility and they may not be able to see your vehicle.
    Reduce any distractions inside your car so you can concentrate on the road and your surroundings.

For more tips on how to help kids become safer pedestrians on Halloween, as well as throughout the year, visit www.safekids.org and visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/safekidsusa.

In 1999, Safe Kids Worldwide and program sponsor FedEx created the Safe Kids Walk This Way Program in the United States to teach safe behaviors to motorists and child pedestrians and create safer, more walkable communities. This year will mark the twelfth yeah anniversary of the program.

As read on: http://www.safekids.org/our-work/news-press/press-releases/safe-kids-releases.html

Plant City police ditch Harleys in favor of Victory motorcycles

2011-10-27T08:31:00.003-04:00

PLANT CITY --
The city's motorcycle officers have new sets of wheels.

The city police department recently rolled out four Victory motorcycles, which officers say are more powerful and safer than the Harley-Davidsons they replace.

"The safety features provided on the Victory motor is second to none," Senior Officer Russell Bass said. "It turns well, has forged steel roll protectors, pinned down floorboards and a bottom skid plate that protects the bike from impact and debris."

The Victory Commander I's also feature a black and white art deco look.

The city revived its motorcycle unit about 10 years ago after a hiatus of several years. Master Patrol Officer Fred Morris, who has been with the unit since its rebirth, said the Victorys make tighter turns and have the ground clearance to drive over curbs without damage.

The motorcycles also come with tip over protection and the fixed floorboards reduce the possibility of an officer breaking or twisting a foot, ankle or knee in the event the bike goes down, officers said.

The city bought the four new bikes at a cost of more than $30,000 each. The city plans to sell three of its Harley-Davidsons at auction and keep the fourth for a historical display.

Plant City police say they are the only department east of the Mississippi River using Victory motorcycles. Public Information Officer Tray Towles said factors in making the switch included five-year wheel-to-wheel factory warranty and maintenance.

The warranty and maintenance agreement will save the city thousands of dollars over the life of each bike, the department said.

A police news release hails the Victory as the "best police motorcycle on the market."

Officer Kyle Russell, a member of the motorcycle unit since August 2009, likes the powerful, 97-horsepower, 106 cubic inch engine.

"We want to accelerate in traffic and get behind the traffic offender as quickly as possible to limit danger to the public," he said.

As read on: http://www2.tbo.com/news/plant-city/2011/oct/21/police-ditch-harleys-in-favor-of-victory-motorcycl-ar-273306/

Embattled Hartland Principal Goes on Leave

2011-10-26T09:15:00.002-04:00

Creekside Elementary School Principal Tracey Sahouri — who has been under fire recently over her handling of this year's MEAP test and accusations that she allowed underage drinking at her home — has taken an indefinite leave of absence, according to a letter to parents.

Hartland School District Superintendent Janet Sifferman did not address either controversy in a brief letter, in which she also announced that Lawrence Pumford will serve as acting principal. Pumford has worked in the district for more than 11 years, most recently as an assistant principal at the high school.

"Please feel free to contact Mr. Pumford or me if you have any specific concerns regarding your children," she wrote.

As read on: http://hartland.patch.com/articles/embattled-hartland-principal-goes-on-leave

Bulk Leaf Pick-Up THIS WEEK in Plymouth, Michigan

2011-10-25T12:02:00.000-04:00

The Department of Municipal Services will be doing bulk leaf pick up this week (Week of October 24) in Area C. Area C is all streets South of Ann Arbor Tr., West of S. Main St., North of Ann Arbor Rd., and East of Sheldon Rd. See the city website for a map, www.ci.plymouth.mi.us.

Residents are required to have leaves neatly raked to the curb by 7:00A.M. on the Monday of your designated week. DO NOT place grass clippings, branches/limbs, corn stalks, pumpkins, etc. into the street with leaves. DO NOT place leaf piles over storm drains. Plugged grates will cause flooding. Please take special care to keep grates free of leaves. Your second designated week will be the week of November 21. Thank you for following these guidelines to make this season's leaf collection as efficient as possible.

Yard Waste Pickup Ends in Farmington Hills Nov. 28-Dec. 2

2011-10-21T07:52:00.000-04:00

Yard waste pickup will end this year in Farmington Hills on regularly scheduled garbage days during the week of Nov. 28 to Dec. 2.

Under the city’s refuse contract and Michigan laws governing yard waste disposal, yard waste cannot be picked up after Dec. 2. According to the state Dept. of Environmental Quality, yard waste is prohibited in Michigan landfills.

Any accumulated yard waste should be stored until spring pickup resumes in early April, 2012.

For more information, call the Division of Public Works at 248-871-2850.

Pumpkin Palooza coming to downtown Plymouth this Sunday, October 23, from noon to 4:00!

2011-10-18T09:31:00.000-04:00

Games, crafts, entertainment, a “haunted alley” and candy — of course — will hit the streets of downtown Plymouth next weekend for the debut of a one-day Halloween party for children.

Pumpkin Palooza, a free event being organized by downtown retailers, will combine elements the Great Pumpkin Caper (downtown trick-or-treating) and summertime's Kid Palooza, the two events it replaces. The first-ever Pumpkin Palooza is scheduled for noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 23.

“We wanted it to be more of an event instead of the normal trick-or-treating,” said Lindsey Lebovitz, the owner of Creatopia and chairwoman of the Pumpkin Palooza committee.

“It's more fun for the kids instead of just walking around in a circle on the sidewalk, in a big, huge crowd,” Lebovitz added.

The Great Pumpkin Caper, which drew kids to downtown businesses that were passing out candy, was popular, said Teri Fry, events manager at the Plymouth Community Chamber of Commerce, but the spirit of Halloween — and fun — was lost in the crush of people.

Pumpkin Palooza, while offering trick-or-treating at some businesses (and at candy stations at three major intersections), will also feature a variety of activities that should be more in keeping with the Halloween theme, she said.

“They wanted to do something better,” Fry said of the retailers.

Pumpkin Palooza will take place downtown on Main, Forest, Ann Arbor Trail and Penniman — the streets will be closed to vehicles — and at Kellogg Park and The Gathering.

Games, with prizes, will include pumpkin bowling (pumpkins as bowling balls, gourds as the pins), witch-hat ring toss, pumpkin bocce ball and “ghost” waiter races. There will also be Halloween-themed crafts, a strolling magician and a strolling balloon sculptor, a 2:30 p.m. hula-hoop demonstration in Kellogg Park, and a noon pet costume contest and 1:30 p.m. children's costume contest both at The Gathering. (Registration for the pet contest is at 11:30 a.m.; entrants to the kids' contest can just show up).

Pumpkin Palooza will also feature a “haunted alley” (the passageway between Main and the lower part of the downtown parking deck) and a “pirate singer” who will be doing his swashbuckling on Forest between Wing and Ann Arbor Trail.

Jack Demmer Ford is the event's major sponsor, but Fry said upwards of 35 businesses are participating. Some 20 to 25 of those, said Lebovitz, will have candy for trick-or-treaters.

It'll be the only downtown Plymouth event designed especially for children, the two said.

“Most of the events that go on in town are for adults, except for Fall Festival,” said Fry. “So this is strictly a children's event.”

For updates on Pumpkin Palooza offerings, check the chamber's website, www.plymouthmich.org., and click on the “events” tab.

As read on: http://www.hometownlife.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2011110160504

Chili Contest, Motorcycle Show - 16th Annual Great Lakes Regional Chili Cook-Off

2011-10-14T11:57:00.003-04:00

Enjoying weather that was more August than October, an estimated 20,000 people visited downtown Plymouth Sunday for the Great Lakes Regional Chili Cookoff.

The 16th annual festival, which netted around $40,000 for Habitat for Humanity of Western Wayne County, featured a motorcycle show, performances by dance troupes, live music by Steve King and the Dittilies, vendors' booths — and chili: 90 different varieties in five competition categories.

The crowd went through more than 50,000 samples of chili, according to organizers Annette and Ken Horn.

“It was the smoothest-running event so far,” said Annette Horn, board president of Great Lakes Chili Inc., the nonprofit that runs the festival. “It's one of the most fun days of the fall season for us, even though it is crazy and hectic.”

The chili ran out shortly before the event's official 5 p.m. closing time.

“Usually a restaurant here and there will have some chili left, but we absolutely ran dry,” said Horn.

Returning cooks took some of the top honors in the cookoff at The Gathering.

“They're getting a little tired of me here,” joked Richard Chauvin of Windsor after picking up his first-place award, in International Chili Society competition, for chili verde, or green chili.

It was the third straight chili verde win for Chauvin, who was fresh from the Oct. 1 ICS world championship in Manchester, N.H., where he (and about 140 other chili verde cooks) lost to Gary Ray of Livonia.

With his win Sunday, Chauvin, a master cook in both green and red chili, is guaranteed a spot in next fall's world championship.

People's choice

By contrast, Ron Smith of Novi took home top honors in the people's choice category, a non-ICS competition, after competing in the Plymouth festival for the first time.

Smith had whipped up a little more than 10 gallons of his white chicken chili.

“This is great,” said Smith. “I know I have a popular chili, but it never dawned on me I would win the people's choice.”

Smith is also a member of the Motor City HOG (Harley Owners Group) at Motor City Harley-Davidson in Farmington Hills, which sponsored one of two “chili rides” of motorcyclists into downtown Plymouth. The events — the other chili ride was sponsored by Dick Scott Classic Motorcycles in Livonia — brought about 400 motorcycles rumbling into town, the Horns said.

In addition, there were 146 motorcycles, parked on Ann Arbor Trail between Union and Main, in the festival's motorcycle show, in which prizes were awarded in 18 categories. Motorcycle-related events raised money for the Penrickton Center for Blind Children in Taylor, and the proceeds were still being counted up Tuesday, Annette Horn said.

As read on: http://www.hometownlife.com/article/20111013/NEWS10/110130602/Recipe-success-Chili-contest-motorcycle-show?odyssey=mod%7Cnewswell%7Ctext%7CLivonia%7Cs

LIVONIA electronic waste, secure document shredding and tire recycling event THIS Saturday, October 15th!

2011-10-13T13:20:00.002-04:00

REMINDER - An electronic waste, secure document shredding and tire recycling event will be held this Saturday, October 15th from 9:00am - 1:00 pm at the DPW Yard 12973 Farmington Rd (One block south of Schoolcraft on the west side of Farmington Rd)

Hazardous waste will not be collected at this event. Wayne County will be conducting a Household Hazardous Waste/E-Waste event in November. Details will be e-mailed shortly

Electronic Waste Recycling - Computers, televisions, monitors, keyboards, mice, printers, fax machines, VCR & DVD players, stereos & speakers, cell phones & telephones, microwave ovens, X-Mas lights, game consoles, etc.

Tire Recycling - In conjunction with Wayne County Department of Environment, tires with or without rims may be disposed of. Up to ten tires per household accepted.

Paper Shredding - Residents and businesses may bring sensitive documents for secure shredding, (up to five boxes will be accepted-each box the approximate size of a recycle bin). Examples of items that should be securely shredded include invoices, bank statements, cancelled checks, tax returns, contracts, personal papers, etc. Paper clips, binder clips, and staples do not need to be removed. Bindings and metal spines cannot be shredded and must be removed in advance. (Note: Non-sensitive documents can be recycled year-round at the Livonia Recycling Center or in your recycle bin at the curb)

Jeep Wrangler finds its softer side

2011-10-13T07:26:00.002-04:00

By Scott Burgess / The Detroit News

America, along with the rest of the world, has cheapened our icons.

Nowadays, everything is iconic: Robert Redford, a water tower and even a good Coney dog might qualify. The problem with making everything iconic is that then nothing really is. It's like saying every child is special.

But one special vehicle deserving of this trail-rated badge is the 2012 Jeep Wrangler. It defines more than a brand — it defines a country, a way of life. Close your eyes and think of a Jeep and it's the Wrangler crawling slowly up the side of your brain, fording cerebral fluid like it was crossing the Amazon River itself.

And finally, the Wrangler is opening its doors to more than just those wonderfully crazed enthusiasts who always have mud splattered on their sunglasses and dust covering the dash and floor and gear inside of other gear. The Jeep life used to be a dusty one.

Now the Wrangler has made room for everyone else, including the people who don't care for dust.

Jeep put the Wrangler in its transmogrifier and popped out the 2012 version with better gas mileage, more power and a lot more refinement inside and out.

At first glance, the Wrangler's looks haven't changed much. There are still all of those great cues that say you drove to work via the Continental Pass. The big, round headlights, the seven-slotted grille and chunky 18-inch wheel strapped onto the back. There are a few other things enthusiasts know about, such as the exposed door hinges and the trapezoidal shaped fenders that help define the Wrangler.

But something happened during assembly that gives the Wrangler a cleaner look. Jeep attributes some of this to improved manufacturing and a new paint shop. This made it possible to provide a body-colored hardtop for the 2011 regular Wranglers and for 2012 Sahara and Rubicon models.

Inside, an interior overhaul has moved this 4x4 up a few rungs of the sophistication ladder. It's a delicate ascent, as Wrangler still wants to have all of its rugged appeal but still attract people who enjoy some of the finer things in life, such as a well-made dash and comfortable seats.

The interior is comfortable and complete. The softer dash pushes out on a few inches from the nearly straight up windshield, and the redesigned instrument gauges are much more crisp.
Finally complete

Really, the difference is just the way this dash looks and feels over the previous generation. Jeep underwent a small overhaul for the 2011 model year, but critics called it half-baked.

Now, it's finished. The materials feel high-grade, and there's a completeness the previous model lacked.

There are the easy-to-reach USB connections and heated front seats (always been needed on chilly fall days when it's sunny enough to keep the roof down).

(There are two types of roofs, a soft or hardtop, available for the Wrangler. Personally, I like the soft top, which is surprisingly quiet when it's up; it takes a few minutes to lower, once you find all of the zippers involved.)

Jeep also brings it new UConnect system. The voice-activated system will connect your phone via Bluetooth for hands-free phone operation and your music-playing device.

My test vehicle still included the old-generation 6.5-inch color touch screen with chunky buttons down each side, but this system is better than last year. It took only a few minutes to get the speakers mounted on the roll bars and cranking out tunes.

Of course, sitting in the back of the Wrangler remains an uncomfortable experience and just getting back there can be a hassle. (This explains why the four-door Wrangler Unlimited continues to outsell the Wrangler two-door.)
More mileage

There are also convenient features such as the 115-volt outlet in the second row, a feature that every vehicle in the world should have. Jeep also added lockable storage, which comes in handy when the soft top is down and the Wrangler is parked. The Wrangler used to symbolize roughing it, but now, you don't have to sacrifice anything inside the Wrangler.

Driving the Wrangler, there's never a sense of sacrifice. First, it can do everything, if not more, than all of the Wranglers from years gone by. (This Wrangler was introduced in 1987, and the original Jeep Wiley pulled four years of military service before it even became available to the general public.)

Now, the Wrangler has the 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 under its clamshell hood. This engine, the driving force behind Chrysler Group's revival, is smaller, more powerful and all around better than the outgoing 3.8-liter V-6 formally in the Wrangler.

It produces 83 more horsepower (285 horsepower total), 23 pound-feet more torque (260 pound-feet total) and better fuel economy. The new Wrangler can get 17 mpg city and 21 mpg highway.
More mileage

Naturally, when you're going to put an engine into a Jeep, it will require modifications. Jeep engineers improved the intake, giving the Jeep more power, and moved the alternator up, just in case of an Amazon crossing.

Some of that mileage improvement can be attributed to the new five-speed automatic transmission (there's also a German-made six-speed manual available). The manual transmission is extremely smooth, and a few times during my test-drive I forgot to put the Jeep in the fifth or sixth gear because the Wrangler was so responsive. The automatic was equally as responsive, never hunting for a gear.

The suspension, while created for all of that crazy wheel articulation off-road, provides a smooth ride on the highway and county roads. Even the Rubicon model felt comfortable on the road.

And that's the difference between this Jeep and any other Wrangler.

Off the road, it will chew up almost any terrain in front of it. It relishes every opportunity to get dirty. On the road, it feels like a nice SUV with a smooth ride.

And this Wrangler will never call itself iconic. It knows if you have to call yourself that, then you're not. And this Jeep certainly is.

As read on: http://apps.detnews.com/apps/autoreviews/index.php?id=35706

Car-Care Checklist for Cold-weather Driving Season

2011-10-12T09:59:00.000-04:00

Mopar® Announces Car-Care Checklist for Cold-weather Driving Season

Ten items to check before winter
Mopar® services Chrysler, Jeep_®, Dodge, Ram, SRT and Fiat vehicles
With the addition of Magneti Marelli parts, Mopar also services competitive makes
Mopar now offers full menu of all-season, winter and performance tires
Mopar Service Clinic offers free vehicle inspections and dealership tours at select Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Ram and Fiat dealerships

October 4, 2011 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Before winter settles in, fall is the time for owners to get their vehicles into shape.

“Now is the time to prepare your vehicle for the upcoming winter-driving season,” said Jim Sassorossi, Head of Sales and Product Development at Mopar®, Chrysler Group’s service, parts and customer-care brand. “Preventative maintenance helps vehicles perform at optimum levels in a variety of conditions.

“With original-equipment Mopar parts, our factory-trained technicians provide full service to Chrysler, Jeep_®, Dodge, Ram, SRT and Fiat vehicles,” Sassorossi added. “And with the addition of proven, quality-tested parts from Magneti Marelli, we also service all domestic and most import vehicles as well.”

Mopar’s Fall Car-Care Checklist

1: BrakesSummer travel gives brake pads a heavy workout, resulting in the removal of thin layers. Now is the time to check pads, shoes, rotors, drums, calipers, wheel cylinders, brake hardware and the parking brake for wear and tear.

2: TiresClosely inspect the tread and sidewall areas of tires for uneven or irregular wear. In addition, excessive edge wear, center wear and shoulder wear can act as an indicator for other trouble spots on your vehicle. It's also important to ensure correct air pressure at all times in order to prevent premature wear. Be sure to check the spare as well. If replacements are needed, Mopar offers a complete lineup of tires and winter tires from BFGoodrich, Bridgestone, Continental, Dunlop, Firestone, General, Goodyear, Hankook, Kelly, Kumho, Michelin, Uniroyal and Yokohama brands.

3: Battery Summer heat does the most damage to battery life and is why they often fail in the winter. Check for corroded terminals and a bulging or cracked case. Test and replace battery if necessary.

4: Wiper BladesWinter driving conditions challenge your ability to see the road. Mopar’s lineup of wiper blades now includes Beam Blades, which provide superior all-weather performance and aid driving visibility. The wiper blades boast a skin coating that seals the aerodynamic spoiler in order to protect it from winter weather. Mopar Beam Blades also are constructed to eliminate exposed parts and to resist snow- and ice-clogging.

5: Shocks and StrutsFor motorists located in cold and snowy climates, fall and winter also usher in a dreaded time of year: pothole season. Shocks and struts are the most overlooked service parts on a vehicle, but they affect ride control and comfort and can also affect a number of related parts. Mopar shocks and struts optimize vehicle handling, tire life and keep vehicles riding smoothly.

6: Engine OilEnsure your engine oil has the correct viscosity in order to endure cold weather. Engine oil should be changed or replenished at recommended intervals. Low or dirty fluids affect how an engine and its components perform and could potentially cause engine damage under extreme conditions.

7: Fluid LevelsAll vehicle fluids and lubricants should be checked and changed at factory-recommended intervals. Key fluids include antifreeze/coolant level and concentration, as well as power steering, brake, transmission and windshield washer fluids.

8: Engine Belts and HosesReplace belts and hoses at recommended intervals. Quality-tested Mopar belts and hoses offer precision fit, optimal service life and original-equipment performance.

9: Air FilterThe air filter is designed to protect your engine from airborne contaminants. Poor air flow to the engine inhibits performance and generates greater fuel consumption. A new air filter allows clean, unrestricted air flow into the engine and helps ensure proper performance for a longer life.

10: Headlamps and TaillampsDays become shorter in the fall and winter, meaning more nighttime driving and increased usage of headlamps and taillamps. Inspect and test all lamps on your vehicle to ensure proper function and proper alignment.

Mopar Fall Service Specials and RebatesMopar has a full slate of fall service specials and mail-in rebates on tap for consumers, including:

$70 rebates on select sets of four Goodyear premium tires
$20 rebates per set of any other four Goodyear tires
$20 rebates per set of two Value Line struts
$10 rebates per set of two Value Line shocks
$2.50 rebates per each Value Line wiper blade (applicable for all makes and models)
At select Chrysler Group dealerships, one special low price for three services: oil and filter change, Mopar Value Line wiper blades and multipoint vehicle checkup, plus a 10 percent discount on needed repairs
At select Chrysler Group dealerships, customers can take advantage of the Mopar Service Clinic, a program that offers free vehicle inspections in October and November

Mopar-First FeaturesMopar has introduced numerous industry-first features including:

Camper trailers: first to introduce off-road camper trailers
Vehicle-information smartphone apps: first to introduce smartphone vehicle-information applications, a new channel of communication with consumers
Electronic owner manuals: first to introduce traditional owner manuals in a DVD and brief user-guide format
Electronic Vehicle Tracking System (EVTS): first to introduce new vehicle tracking system that sends owner a text when vehicle is driven too fast or too far based on set parameters
2011 Challenger Drag Pak: first to introduce a 500-plus cubic-inch V-10 drag-race package car
WiFi: first to offer customers the ability to make their vehicle a wireless hot spot
Brand-specific customer-care telephone lines: first to offer Sunday service hours to customers
WiTECH: first to support vehicle diagnosis and software updates leveraging off-the-shelf personal computers and a dedicated wireless tool network

About the Mopar Brand Mopar is Chrysler Group LLC’s service, parts and customer-care brand.

Mopar distributes approximately 280,000 parts and accessories in more than 90 countries and is the source for all original-equipment parts for Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge and Ram vehicles. Mopar parts are unique in that they are engineered with the same teams that create factory-authorized vehicle specifications for Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge and Ram vehicles — a direct connection that no other aftermarket parts company can provide. A complete list of Mopar accessories and performance parts is available at http://www.mopar.com.

More than 70 Years of MoparWhen Chrysler bought Dodge in 1928, the need for a dedicated parts manufacturer, supplier and distribution system to support the growing enterprise led to the formation of the Chrysler Motor Parts Corporation (CMPC) in 1929.

Mopar (a simple contraction of the words MOtor and PARts) was trademarked for a line of antifreeze products in 1937. It also was widely used as a moniker for the CMPC. The Mopar brand made its mark in the 1960s — the muscle-car era. The Chrysler Corporation built race-ready Dodge and Plymouth “package cars” equipped with special high-performance parts. Mopar carried a line of “special parts” for super-stock drag racers and developed its racing parts division called Mopar Performance Parts to enhance speed and handling for both road and racing use.

As read on: http://media.chrysler.com/newsrelease.do;jsessionid=5081CCF289143A683AB95EEB5C70B487?&id=11590&adid=MoparCold&pid=ChryslerFacebook&mid=2?sid=Chrysler&channel=Social

Chili Cookoff Winners Crowned in Downtown Plymouth

2011-10-10T15:21:00.000-04:00

Freshly made chili was a hot item Sunday in downtown Plymouth as thousands visited Kellogg Park for the Great Lakes Regional Chili Cookoff.

Cooks from around the country descended upon downtown Plymouth with hopes of taking home a plaque for their prized recipes.

The event also featured live music from Steve King and the Dittilies, children's games and an abundance of flashy motorcycles.

Winners, as selected both by attendees and judges, included:

•Best Booth: Leo Buk, Nuclear Chili
•People's Choice: Ron Smith, Motor City Harley Davidson
•Best Salsa: Bill "Gumby" Donovan
•Chili Verde: Richard Chauvin
•Red Chili: Diane Lentz
Richard Chauvin of Windsor, Ontario, winner of chili verde, said the Plymouth event likely was the most work he's done for a chili cookoff, because of "the support the town gives."

Chauvin said chili verde, or green chili, has a fresher taste than red chili.

"A mediocre green chili is better than a great red," he said.

He said his recipe is "a little on the hot side," and that he uses all fresh ingredients.

Chauvin, a retired accountant, said he cooks chili "just for fun," but hasn't ruled out going into the food business.

AS read on: http://plymouth-mi.patch.com/articles/chili-cookoff-winners-crowned-in-downtown-plymouth#photo-8064650

THIS Sunday, October 9th is the 16th Annual Great Lakes Regional Chili Cookoff!

2011-10-06T16:44:00.000-04:00

Join us at Dick Scott's Classic Motorcycles in Livonia for our Charity Ride to benefit the Penrickton Center for Blind Children! We will leave Livonia at 10am Sharp to head to the Chili Cook-off. Once we arrive in Downtown Plymouth we will have FREE VIP Parking for the Chili Cook-off event!
Visit our Upcoming Events Page for complete Charity Ride Details and to Print a flyer!

Great Lakes Regional Chili Cook-off Event:
Sunday, October 9, 2011, 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Where: Plymouth, MI

Great Lakes Regional Chili, Inc is a not-for-profit 501(c) 3 organization that holds chili cook-offs to benefit charities or other nonprofit organizations. Winners of the Great Lakes Regional Chili, Inc cook-offs qualify to compete at the International Chili Society (ICS) World's Championship Chili Cook-off. The ICS is the largest food contest, festival organization in the world!

Great Lakes Regional Chili, Inc is very proud that in the past 14 years we have raised $185,000 for charities and nonprofit organizations here in Southeast Michigan.

Charities who have received at least $5,000 include: Make a Wish Foundation, The Rainbow Connection, Plymouth Salvation Army, Bridgepoint, Michigan Youth Soccer Association and Habitat for Humanity.

Click here to visit the Great Lakes Regional Chili Cook Off web site: www.greatlakeschili.com

As read on: http://www.plymouthmich.org/events/Great-Lakes-Regional-Chili-Cook-Off_ET23S27.html

Volunteers strive for better Redford

2011-10-05T18:15:00.000-04:00

Part of the I-96 service drive is looking better recently, thanks to a small, determined army of volunteers.

On Saturday, for the fourth time in two months, those volunteers — a group called At Your Service — spent most of the morning picking up trash, whacking weeds and generally improving the I-96 service drive, from Telegraph to Sarasota.

“We collected 54 bags of trash,” said Tom Rayburn, spokesman for the group that started at the South Redford Christian Church and evolved into the Christian Alliance of Redford. “It's not finished yet, and we'll be back. We'll probably do it again next year.”

The cleanup involved as many as 25 people, mostly from churches affiliated with the alliance.

“It was actually fun,” said the Rev. Lee A. Williams, pastor of the Merciful Ministries of Jesus Christ that moved to the township in June. “We picked up a lot of paper and cut a lot of weeds.”

Several passers-by stopped to ask questions and subsequently to thank the volunteers. Among them was Pam Provenzano, who was so impressed, she decided to join.

“I was walking my dog and I saw people working along the service drive,” she said. “They really did a good job. The service drive looked so much better.”

Provenzano, who manages a law office in Ann Arbor, doesn't have much time. “I don't know the extent of what they (the volunteers) do,” she said. “But if they do things like that, I'm willing to help.”

Provenzano has lived in the township for 54 years. “I want Redford to be as clean as I remember it,” she said.

The volunteers undertake a variety of projects, Rayburn explained. The group doesn't have any particular criteria for undertaking a project, he said, except the end result must help people and the township.

“We haven't had to turn any project down yet,” he said. The group, he predicted, will just continue doing good work. “We help where we can.”

As for anyone who wants to join, Rayburn said, “We're a Christian-based organization. But we welcome anyone willing to work.”

Previous projects have included helping seniors with their homes and repainting the Old School House in front of the Post Office — now the office of the Redford Township Historical Commission.

“They did a great job,” said Arvilla Moore, a member of the commission and a charter member of the Historical Society. “They came out for five or six weekends. It was a lot of work.”

Township Supervisor Tracey Schultz Kobylarz agrees. “Tom Rayburn and his group of Christian soldiers are making a huge impact on the elimination of blight on the I-96 corridor,” she said. “It is an excellent example of how church and state can (and should) work together.

“The hundreds of volunteer hours have improved the look of the corridor and increased the safety of drivers and pedestrians.”

As Read on: http://www.hometownlife.com/article/20110929/NEWS16/109290617/Volunteers-strive-better-Redford?odyssey=nav%7Chead

Who will win game 4 tonight of the ALDS?

2011-10-04T12:22:00.000-04:00

The Yankees need to save their season, and, lo and behold, A.J. Burnett is the one who will try to ensure that happens.

It took an interesting turn of events -- perhaps Yankees fans would call it a cruel twist of fate -- but with the Yanks needing to win Game 4 of the American League Division Series on Tuesday to force a Game 5 at Yankee Stadium, it'll be the enigmatic Burnett trying to come through against young-but-tenured Tigers starter Rick Porcello.

Burnett knows about all the criticism, all the insecurities and all the doubt surrounding whether he can continue to be a productive member of the Yanks' rotation.

Apparently, he listens to none of it.

"Believe it or not, I've got pretty good confidence every start," said Burnett, who's 1-2 with a 5.67 ERA in six postseason starts. "I try to go out and believe I can throw a no-hitter. Even last year, when I couldn't get out of the first inning, I still took the mound with belief, and I did so this year."

Burnett has put up a 5.20 ERA the last two seasons, and in 2011, he set career highs in homers and wild pitches, all while contributing just 10 quality starts in 32 appearances.

For that, Burnett initially found himself out of the playoff rotation -- before Friday's suspended game forced manager Joe Girardi to go with four starters -- and for that, Yankees fans are holding their collective breath with Burnett getting ready to take the mound in a big start.

He gets all that.

But he has a message.

"You can't count me out," Burnett said on Monday. "I'm going to bring everything I've got and just let A.J. loose out there."

In Detroit manager Jim Leyland's words, the man he'll be letting loose is "Jekyll and Hyde."

That's what Porcello and his heavy sinker were throughout the regular season.

The 22-year-old right-hander went 5-0 with a 3.06 ERA in July, struggled toward a 6.82 ERA in August, then finished the season going 4-1 with a 3.55 ERA in September.

"What you have to remember about Rick Porcello is he's still a very, very young pitcher," Leyland said. "I think he's won 38 games in the Major Leagues already, but he's still a young pitcher. So those things are going to happen. There's no question about that. Figuring out big league hitters, figuring out how to calm down, figuring out how to have just enough adrenaline and not too much adrenaline. He's figuring it all out in the process."

Porcello, who tied his a career-high in wins (14) and set a new one in innings (182) in his third full season, is a New Jersey kid who grew up a Mets fan. His parents, however, always cheered on the Yankees.

"Mom loves Derek Jeter," Porcello said. "Might like him more than me."

Now Porcello has a chance to finish off those Yankees.

Yankees: Big bats still cold
The middle of the Bombers' order went 0-for-10 in Monday's 5-4 Game 2 loss. Robinson Cano finished 0-for-4 with two strikeouts, Alex Rodriguez went 0-for-2 with two walks and Mark Teixeira went 0-for-4 with two strikeouts.

For A-Rod and Teixeira, the two hitters counted on to ensure Cano doesn't get pitched around too much, perhaps it's especially troubling. The two are a combined 1-for-21 in the series.

But Girardi didn't echo any concerns following Game 2.

Regarding A-Rod, Girardi said: "He had an RBI and two walks tonight. He was on base twice and drove in a run. I know he didn't hit a home run, but he was on base, and that's what you want guys to do, is get on."

Regarding Teixeira, he said: "He lined out to left. ... You're facing good pitchers. Teams don't get to this point by having not good staffs. They make good pitches. [Tigers ace Justin] Verlander, it's not like you're facing a guy that they pulled out of the stands tonight."

Tigers: Valverde conquers adventures
In the end, it's simple: Closer Jose Valverde has held on to both ninth-inning leads he's been given in this series.

But his adventurous ninth innings have been anything but simple.

Valverde gave up two earned runs on two hits and two walks in Sunday's outing. On Monday, he put the tying run in scoring position and had to strike out Derek Jeter to end it.

Valverde went 49-for-49 in saves this season. But tough predicaments are nothing new.

"He does get into problems," Leyland said. "We know they're going to run on him in certain situations. You can't do much better than what he's done up to this point. So we feel comfortable with him."

Worth noting
• Monday's crowd of 43,581 marked the largest in postseason history at Comerica Park.

• Opposing right-handed batters hit .248 against Porcello this season, while opposing lefties hit .321.

• Brett Gardner, who went 2-for-3 with two RBIs on Monday, has appeared in 26 of the Yanks' 27 postseason games since 2009

As read on: http://detroit.tigers.mlb.com/mlb/gameday/index.jsp?gid=2011_10_04_nyamlb_detmlb_1&mode=preview&vkey=preview_web_home&c_id=det&partnerId=aw-5062538658410631377-1075

Plymouth-Canton's P-CEP Complex Shut After Threat

2011-10-03T11:18:00.000-04:00

Plymouth-Canton Educational Park has been closed and what school officials have described as a "credible threat."

Canton Police have issued a statement calling the incident a "threat of student retaliation."

A controlled release of students is underway. The three-school complex includes Plymouth, Salem and Canton high schools, with about 6,200 students.

District officials put the Park into lockdown this morning at about 8 a.m.," accoding to a statement released by the district. "Police determined that a credible threat has be received and we have asked students and teachers to stay in their first hour classes until further notice."

District spokesman Frank Ruggirello Jr. said the district will have a press conference later this afteroon with details but for now, "we're letting police do their jobs."

The dismissal is being conducted this way:

•Students who take the bus are being transported to their normal stop
•Students who drive will be allowed to drive their own cars home
•Parents who drive their children are being directed to Pioneer Middle School, 46081 Ann Arbor Rd., to pick up their children, Ruggirello said.
Because of the number of students being transported, Ruggirello said the district is asking parents to be patient with the process.

As read on: http://plymouth-mi.patch.com/articles/plymouth-cantons-p-cep-complex-shut-after-threat

Hallowe'en in Greenfield Village

2011-09-29T10:54:00.004-04:00

It's that time of year again!!!

Step back in time to a turn-of-the-20th century Hallowe’en. Follow an endless path of hand-carved jack-o-lanterns and meet colorful characters along the way. Feel the whoosh as the headless horseman rides by, banter with a clever witch, and make stops at several treat stations spread throughout Greenfield Village. It’s frightfully fun for the whole family! Members of The Henry Ford receive discount admission and an exclusive opportunity to purchase tickets in advance.

Program highlights:

- 800 hand-carved jack-o-lanterns light your way.
- The spirits of Greenfield Village come to life as you are surrounded by the eerie sights and sounds of Hallowe'en past.
- Pass through 11 themed treat stations.
- Come across fun and colorful characters, and be sure to bring your camera!
- Dress outrageously or come as you are.
- Visit our Hallowe'en Shop in Liberty Craftworks for this year's souvenir T-Shirt and Hallowe'en collectibles.
- Enjoy delicious meals and snacks at Taste of History or the Guild Beer Hall along the way.
- Hallowe'en in Greenfield Village treat bags will be provided.

MEMBER ADULT age 13 & up, $12.75
MEMBER YOUTH age 3-12, $12.75
NON-MEMBER ADULT $15
NON-MEMBER YOUTH $15
CHILDREN 2 & under are free

Parking is $5 per vehicle.
A $2.50 service fee will be charged for all call center and internet advance purchases

What to bring, what to wear
Greenfield Village is spread over dozens of acres-- comfortable clothing and comfortable shoes are a must. Costumes are encouraged for both adults and children, however, costumes that impede vision should be avoided. Dressing for the weather is a must. Bring umbrellas / rain gear and prepare for a wide range of temperatures. Bring a flash light.

Please do not bring real or imitation weapons. Costume props that are, or resemble weapons will be collected and checked at the Village entrance building upon entry. Be aware that Halloween treats (that are given out for free at various treat stations) could contain allergens such as wheat, dairy and / or peanuts.

Due to the large number of guests that attend, electric scooters and children’s wagons WILL NOT BE AVAILABLE for rent at this event. Wheelchairs are available for a small fee at the Village entrance. You are welcome to bring your own wheelchair or electric scooter, however, upright scooters (Segways) are not allowed on premises.

Bring a camera; photography is allowed in all areas of the Village.

Tickets to Hallowe'en in Greenfield Village will be available August 11 for members and September 15 for non-members through The Henry Ford Call Center (open 7 days a week, 9am - 5pm) 313-982-6001. Tickets can be mailed when reservations are made 2 weeks or more in advance. Tickets purchased less than 2 weeks out will be held at Village Will Call.

Click here for more information!

As read on: http://www.thehenryford.org/events/halloweenEvent.aspx

Congratulations to the 2012 Ram 1500, the winner of PickupTrucks.com's Best $30,000 Truck Shootout!

2011-09-28T07:12:00.000-04:00

The shootout put five pickups that cost no more than $30,000 in head-to-head testing to determine which was the best bang for a shopper's buck. The Ram took the title because of its outstanding performance in payload capacity, 0-60 testing and handling as well as its impressive array of features for the price.

Overall, the Ram not only outperformed the other four trucks, but it also had the fewest sacrifices or compromises feature-wise.

Click Here to View full coverage of the results!

Way to go Ram!!

Restaurant Crawl to Benefit Penn

2011-09-27T11:44:00.000-04:00

Good eats from some local eateries will be on tap at the 6th Annual Penn-Taste-Tic Downtown Plymouth Restaurant Crawl.

The event, which benefits the Friends of the Penn Theatre and the Plymouth Community Chamber of Commerce, will kick off Wednesday, and run from 5:30-8:30 p.m. Tickets must be purchased in advance and are only available at the Plymouth Community Chamber of Commerce, 850 W. Ann Arbor Trail, and Sun & Snow, 388 S. Main St.

Adult tickets are $20 each, and children 10 and under are $15.

Teri Fry, the events manager for the Chamber, said the event will provide a donation to the Penn and provide restaurants with an opportunity to rope in new customers.

“It’s a good event for the business community because it brings traffic downtown,” she said. “And we enjoy helping out the Penn, which has been a longtime fixture downtown.”

Ellen Elliott, president of Friends of the Penn, which operates the theater, said the assistance from the chamber is a big help for the theater.

“We’re happy to get the help,” she said. “It’s great that the business community continues to support us.”

Elliot also said the monies will be used for the theater's renovations.

This year, crawlers can walk around downtown Plymouth enjoying samples and treats from many restaurants, including the Box Bar & Grill; Cellar 849; Compari’s; E.G. Nicks; Ironwood Grill; Jimmy John’s; Nico & Vali; Panera Bread; Perfectly Sweet/Boule Artisan Bakery; Sweet Afton Tea Room; Sweets 21 and Yogurt Palooza.

Though food lovers, or those want to support the Chamber and the Penn, will get their choice of treats, the restaurants will also win because they get an opportunity to familiarize more people with their offerings, said Frank Agostini, the owner of E.G. Nicks, which will provide samplers of their award-winning ribs and artichoke dip.

“Any time that you can your food into people’s mouths, it’s a good opportunity,” he said.

Agostini also said it’s important for locals businesses to support others, like the Penn, to preserve the downtown area.

“The Penn is a landmark, and it’s still here because of the support it gets,” he said. “A lot of landmarks that used to be here are gone.”

Craig Turk, the co-owner of Yogurt Palooza with his business partner, Chris Tomei, said his business will offer two-ounce cups of frozen yogurts, of which 14 flavors will be available.

“It’s self-serve, so they will be able to choose what they want,” he said.

Some of the flavors are likely to include Island Banana, Pistachio, Country Vanilla, Chocolate, and many others.

Yogurt Palooza, which sells frozen yogurt by the ounce, opened in Plymouth this past July. Turk said he hopes the event will create additional awareness for the fledgling business.

“I’m hoping it allows more people to know we’re here,” he said.

In addition to enjoying many types of food, participants will also get a chance to vote for their favorite taste and restaurant.

As read on: http://plymouth-mi.patch.com/articles/restaurant-crawl-to-benefit-penn

Dick Scott Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram is under construction and deals have never been Better!!

2011-09-24T15:12:00.001-04:00

684 W Ann Arbor Rd, Plymouth, MI 48170

(734) 451-2110

The bulldozers are here and taking up space on our lot

and you can take advantage of that!!

The New 2012 model vehicles are rolling in and we are OVER Stocked.

ALL REMAINING 2011 vehicles MUST GO!!!

We need to move some vehicles out to make room for our
NEW State-of-the-Art Showroom!!

Don't wait until the dust clears ~ Come in Today for your
"Best Shot Construction Deal!"

Click Here to see our Inventory!

Visit our Blog and Facebook Page to see the progress of our Construction project and of course the BIG Reveal when we show you the completed project!

3rd Annual Charity Ride AND Chili Cook-Off in Downtown Plymouth!

2011-09-23T15:00:00.003-04:00

Dick Scott Motor Mall Donates toward new Playground Equipment

2011-09-21T15:49:00.002-04:00

NEWS RELEASE Contact: Kathy Devine

For Immediate Release 517.367.1030

September 28, 2011 kdevine@casecu.org

Dick Scott Motor Mall Donates $2,450 to

CASE Cares for Barrier Free Playground Equipment

LANSING, MI – 9/28/11 – Dick Scott Motor Mall, located in Fowlerville, is donating $2,450 to CASE Cares to be used towards the purchase of playground equipment for children with physical and/or mental disabilities to play on at Lansing’s Potter Park.

Says Jud Scott, Vice President of Dick Scott Motor Mall, “We are delighted to be able to support the development of the playground for these children. To raise the money, we held a special promotion between August 15 and 31, 2011, and made the commitment to donate $50 for every automobile sold during that time.”

“We are extremely grateful to everyone at Dick Scott Motor Mall for their support of this very worthwhile project. It is our belief that children in the greater Lansing area with physical and/or mental disabilities will have more opportunities to safely play – and just have fun,” says Kathy Devine, Chair, CASE Cares board of directors. The playground will also provide a barrier-free environment where children, parents, grandparents, and siblings can relax and interact. When completed, this project will help maximize the development of children, regardless of their age or ability.”

Ingham County Parks and Recreation officials are providing the land at Potter Park for the playground. CASE Cares is responsible for obtaining the funding and overseeing the project’s development and construction. There are over 115,000 children in the greater Lansing region (Ingham, Eaton, Clinton, Ionia, Livingston and Shiawassee counties) with physical and/or mental challenges. Kids should be kids – it’s their job to play and have fun. Because of varied disabilities or special needs, their opportunities are limited.

Dick Scott Motor Mall is family owned and operated and has served the Ingham and Livingston county area for over 22 years. They are a full service dealer for Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram, including sales, service, body shop and glass repair.

CASE Cares is an all volunteer, 501 (c) 3 nonprofit organization established by CASE Credit Union during fall 2007.

To make a donation, obtain more information and/or volunteer, interested persons may call 517.393.7710, x1030 or email casecares@casecu.org.

September 28 is the 2011 Downtown Restaurant Crawl in Plymouth!

2011-09-19T11:57:00.001-04:00

The Plymouth Community Chamber of Commerce, in a joint effort with the Friends of the Penn, announce the 6th Annual PENN-Taste-Tic Downtown

Plymouth Restaurant Crawl on Wednesday, September 28 from 5:30 - 8:30pm. "Crawlers" can walk around downtown Plymouth enjoying delicious samples and treats from many of their favorite Plymouth restaurants and sweet shops.

This year's participants include: Box Bar & Grill; Cellar 849; Compari's; E.G. Nicks; Ironwood Grill; Jimmy John's; Nico & Vali; Panera; Perfectly Sweet/Boule Artisan Bakery; Sweet Afton Tea Room; Sweets 21 and Yogurt Palooza. Attendees will get a chance to vote for their favorite taste and restaurant!

Tickets must be purchased in advance and are only available at the Plymouth Community Chamber of Commerce (850 W. Ann Arbor Trail) and Sun & Snow (388 S. Main St.) in downtown Plymouth. Adult tickets are $20 each, and children 10 & under are $15. All proceeds to benefit the Friends of the Penn and the Chamber of Commerce.

As read on: http://campaign.r20.constantcontact.com/render?llr=fbbvrvcab&v=001mgvimUtTidNnUdMV1tsWNkJGXTQBwU3xWhqDX-mdvaKE9MylGxW2qbMeaI1gm5_YeeMS_L5nNmv8LnN5QpIQZptvuAqPI2PpWDig9SV60Rewu5RrFO2N6g%3D%3D

FlexTech High School Now Open

2011-09-18T11:44:00.002-04:00

There’s a new type of school in town with flexible scheduling that’s chock full of cutting-edge technology that none of the kids are too cool for.

FlexTech High School, located near the I-96 and Grand River Ave. intersection, is well into it’s first week of classes and is running smoothly, according to the school’s principal, Melanie Laber.

It’s evident from the moment you walk in the door that Flex Tech is a far cry from the traditional high school classroom.

“My dad said he felt like he was dropping me off at a college campus,” 9th-grader and Brighton resident, Lucas Stanesa, said.

Students and visitors see the school’s state-of-the-art computer lab as they enter through the front door. The lab is equipped with several state-of-the-art iMacs and various tablets, with technology being a huge staple at Flex Tech, Laber said.

Instead of cell phones being taboo as they are at most other schools, students are encouraged to bring their own computers, tablets and even cell phones. Flex Tech offers many online courses to it’s students, giving them the option to work from home or to come in and use the school’s brand new facilities.

Classes that are held at the school are done in 90-minute periods twice a week--more similar to a college schedule than a traditional five-day schedule like most high schools.

While Flex Tech offers the standard Michigan Merit Curriculum courses, it also offers students interesting electives, such as video game design and computer programming classes.

The classes held at the school are done in a project-based manner, which helps kids get used to the types of work they will encounter in the real world, Laber said.

For instance, the physics class held at the school will center around a project that takes a gas-powered remote control car, and transforming it to run on an electric motor. Students are free to design the car and make any changes that they want--total creative freedom. At the end of the course, students will take their finished products to the Michigan National Speedway to let their cars take a lap around the track.

Flex Tech classrooms generally have 10 to 15 kids per class, so kids are in a smaller, more intimate setting with their teachers. Kids are encouraged to work at their own base and undergo one advisory meeting per week to check their progress.

During advisory, kids learn how to manage personal finances, how to behave during job interview, how to build a resume and other skills that help to prepare them for the rest of their lives.

“We’re trying to teach the kids 21st century skills,” Laber, said.

Laber says that Flex Tech is a great fit for a variety of kids.

“Maybe they didn’t fit in, or they’ve been bullied in the past, or just want access to the technology,” Laber said. “Some kids just don’t do well sitting in a classroom all day long.”

FlexTech High School is public charter school, and therefore is state-funded and tuition-free. During open enrollment periods, the school is open for any 9th through 12th grade student in Michigan.

Flex Tech currently has about 130 students enrolled, though numbers have been growing in recent weeks.

For more information on Flex Tech High School, please visit http://www.flextech-hs.org or call 810-844-3366.

As read on: http://brighton.patch.com/articles/flextech-high-school-now-open

Farmington Hills Campus Showcases Women's Art

2011-09-17T11:35:00.003-04:00

A wine and cheese reception Thursday marks the opening of Oakland Community College Women Center's annual show.

Julia Kling wandered around the Smith Theatre Gallery at Oakland Community College (OCC) in Farmington Hills Thursday evening, poring over 34 art works in the "From Our Perspectives" national women's art exhibition.

"There's a lot of good work," said Kling, an au pair living in Bloomfield and studying at OCC's Highland Lakes campus. "It's really interesting to look at and think about."

Juror Shiva Ahmadi selected "Has Ear No Mouth", a haunting depiction of a geisha, by Hui Chi Lee of Lexington, KY, as Best of Show. Other honorees were:

President's Award: "Hard Work Never Killed Anyone", Suzanne Anan, Belmar, NJ

Purchase Award: "Untitled", Aspen Hochhalter, Charlotte, NC

Honorable Mention: "I'm Telling You Now", Ginger Burrell, San Jose, CA and "Reluctant Vessel: Final", Ann Smith, Plymouth MI

Smith attended the show's opening night reception. Her 2009 work, fabricated from new and reclaimed materials, uses a suspended overturned horseshoe crab as a metaphor, with its telson, or tail spine, (normally used to turn the crab back over) piercing a decorative golden platter.

The piece signifies a significant point in her career.

"It's a moment of resolve as regards my profession. I wanted to delve a little bit more into the art, and not to the designers' bidding," Smith said.

Two Farmington artists, Valerie McNeece and Sandra Shelly, also have works selected for the show among more than 300 entries from around the country. McNeece's photo is titled, "Front Yard Prayer Service"; Shelly's piece is "After the Fire".

The 21st annual exhibition runs through Friday, Oct. 14 at the Orchard Ridge Campus’ Smith Theatre Gallery. Viewing hours are Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

As read on: http://farmington-mi.patch.com/articles/farmington-hills-campus-showcases-womens-art#photo-7780838

Passport Day Arrives TOMORROW, Saturday September 17th!!!

2011-09-16T09:16:00.001-04:00

Saturday will make securing a passport easier for aspiring travelers who normally can't get away from their day jobs during the week.

Local passport offices across the nation are offering Passport Day on Saturday, the only non-weekday of the year where offices will be open to process passports.

According to an email by Plymouth Township Deputy Clerk Eric Bacyinski, this is significant because when minors apply for passports, both the parent and the applicant must be present, meaning the parent would have to take time off work.

Bacyinski said in the email that Saturday is the rescheduled date from an original date scheduled in April, but was canceled because of a possible government shutdown.

Bacyinski wrote that more information can be found at the state's travel website.

The hours will run from 10 a.m,-3 p.m. Saturday.

Locally, passports can be processed at Plymouth Township Hall, 9955 N. Haggerty Road in Plymouth Township and Plymouth City Hall, 201 S. Main St.

As read on: http://plymouth-mi.patch.com/articles/passport-day-arrives-on-saturday

Ladies Night OUT in Downtown Plymouth is BACK!

2011-09-15T17:42:00.001-04:00

Come to Downtown Plymouth's Annual Ladies Night Out on Thursday, September 22 from 5:00 - 9:00 pm. This event is a night for ladies to enjoy an evening on the town with friends.

Visit the participating stores and enjoy shopping, gifts, samples, prizes and refreshments. Several restaurants will also have special drinks, appetizers and more.

Participating stores this year include: Basket Kreations; Bella Mia; Bed & Gift Boutique; Candy Trail; Creatopia Paint Your Own Pottery; Dearborn Jewelers; Eclectic Attic; Genuine Toy Co.; GiGi's Mode; Hands on Leather; Home Sweet Home; Isabella's Copper Pot; Jill Andra Young Photography; Kilwin's; Magnolia A Fresh Flower Market; Merle Norman; Old World Olive Press; Penniman Gallery; R.S.V.P.; Sean O'Callaghan's; sideways; Sun & Snow; Sunny J's Lingerie; Sweets 21; That's Awesome and TranquiliTea.

Back by popular demand, Mr. 48170 will again be handing out roses to the first 500 ladies, courtesy of Ribar Floral. Last year was such an overwhelming success that you won't want to miss out this year!

As read on: http://campaign.r20.constantcontact.com/render?llr=fbbvrvcab&v=001mgvimUtTidNnUdMV1tsWNkJGXTQBwU3xWhqDX-mdvaKE9MylGxW2qbMeaI1gm5_YeeMS_L5nNmv8LnN5QpIQZptvuAqPI2PpWDig9SV60Rewu5RrFO2N6g%3D%3D

Brighton Library Offers Tips on Genealogy Research

2011-09-13T15:47:00.001-04:00

Join genealogist Karen Trzcinski at the Brighton District Library as she presents County Courthouse Records, a program for beginning and advanced genealogists on Sept. 14 at 7 p.m. The program is an overview of the numerous types of records found at county courthouses and how they relate to building a family history.

Trzcinski will discuss the importance of not overlooking the county courthouse when exploring one’s family history. The everyday joys and hardships of your ancestor’s lives can often be found among the documents and original records of the local court. Marriage certificates, divorce records, land grants, deeds, wills, probate records, military rosters and an abundance of other genealogical records are tucked away in books, folders, file cabinets and boxes just waiting to be discovered.

Those attending the program will learn how to avoid major pitfalls when looking through courthouse records. Trzcinski stresses developing a plan of action before heading to the courthouse to ensure the most efficient use of your time. Researching old records can become overwhelming and researchers often are disappointed when they visit the courthouse because they really don't know where to begin.

Oftentimes, obscure records may contain a wealth of useful information. Additionally, county clerks themselves might not be aware of older records that may be in storage and haven’t been used for years.

Join Trzcinski for an informative evening of genealogical know-how. To register or learn more about the program County Courthouse Records at the Brighton District Library call 810-229-6571 x 227 or visit our website www .brightonlibrary.info. The library is located at 100 Library Drive, Brighton, MI 48114.

As read on: http://brighton.patch.com/articles/brighton-library-offers-tips-on-genealogy-research

Quicken Loans Plans to Hire 500 New Workers

2011-09-12T14:15:00.001-04:00

DETROIT - Online retail mortgage lender Quicken Loans Inc. says it plans to hire 500 new workers, mostly based in Detroit.

In a release, the company says it plans to kick off the hiring effort with a job fair Saturday at its downtown Detroit headquarters. The company wants to hire immediately for several areas including mortgage banking, marketing and technology.

The event runs form 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. Job listings are posted online.

------
Online:
http://www.quickenloanscareers.com

As read on: http://www.myfoxdetroit.com/dpp/job_shop/quicken-loans-plans-to-hire-500-new-workers-20110912-mr

Schools prepare to remember 9-11 in class on 10-year anniversary

2011-09-11T04:16:00.001-04:00

GENESEE COUNTY, Michigan — Ask anyone younger than 30 where they were when they learned of the Sept. 11 attacks, and you’re likely to get an answer like Tiffany Taylor’s.

“I was in class.”

For an entire generation, Sept. 11, 2001 instantly became one of those rare American moments — like the preceding generation’s John F. Kennedy assassination — in which millions walked into classrooms expecting another quiet day learning about history.

Instead, they watched it unfold.

“All I knew was we were just sitting there, completely quiet,” said Taylor, who was an 8-year-old third grader at Morrish Elementary in Swartz Creek at the time.

Taylor, now an 18-year-old University of Michigan-Flint freshman, said an announcement came on over the PA system about the attacks, but her and other classmates were too young to understand what was happening.

“I was like: ‘What is going on? Why is this going on? Why is this happening?’ ”

Now, long after the rubble and dust from the towers has been swept away, 9-11 as a classroom topic is as strong as ever.

Students all across Michigan start their first day of school today. For many, their first lessons will involve Sunday’s 10-year anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks.

“It can be a touchy subject, but at the same time it needs to be addressed,” said Loraine Brinker, a high school history teacher at Flint K-12 charter school International Academy.

Even Zach Stone — who was a few years older than Taylor in the sixth grade at Flushing Central Elementary — said he had struggled to wrapping his head around the event.

Stone, now 21, said he and the other older kids in the school were taken into the library to watch the news.

“I knew that it was bad,” he said. “But I don’t think I understood the gravity of the situation.”

Doug Hyde, who was in eighth grade at Swartz Creek Middle School, said he spent a lot of the day in confusion.

Hyde was coming back from lunch when classmates started to notice the images on the classroom televisions. Teachers let them come in and watch the news.

“I knew something bad happened ... I didn’t even know what terrorism was,” said Hyde, now 23.

Hyde said he got little explanation from teachers that day. He had to get with other students to talk about the attack.

“We kind of all figured out together that it was bad,” he said.

And, now, 10 years later, teachers are preparing lessons on that fateful day again — one of the first subjects they will have to tackle in the new school year.

Brinker and fellow high school history teacher Brady Pawlik have a unique plan for their school.

Throughout the school day Monday, Sept. 12 (since the anniversary falls on a Sunday), the entire school will get periodic updates over the PA system marking the times of significant events from the day.

For example, at 8:46 a.m., students will be told that’s the exact time American Airlines Flight 11, originally bound for Los Angeles, crashed into floors 93-99 of the World Trade Center’s North Tower.

And at 9:03 a.m., they’ll learn United Airlines Flight 175, also destined for Los Angeles, crashed into floors 77-85 of the South Tower.

“We’re looking at what actually happened that day and not sugarcoating it,” said Brinker.

Students and teachers in all classes and grades will be encouraged to talk about the events as they unfold through the day. Teachers in younger grades will have more basic, age-appropriate conversations while older grades will explore themes of nationalism, Arab-American relations and the war on terror.

The teachers said today’s K-12 students are some of the first Americans who are too young to remember the attacks — or can barely remember. Many haven’t been given the chance to experience and talk about the effect of the attacks.

“We can try to put those students in the same positions and literally ask them how they feel,” Pawlik said.

The 9-11 attacks, and their far-reaching implications, became subject matter for teachers in all grades immediately after the event, said Doug Stuart, a Pennsylvania professor who helped launch the website Teaching 9-11 in 2002.

The site offers direction to a wide selection of teaching tools, including lesson plans, speech transcripts and news reports.

It was shortly after the attacks when Stuart got an unsettling feeling about how the attacks were getting spun in classrooms.

“I saw some interest groups who were very anxious to use 9-11 to send out a certain kind of message, in part to the educational community,” said Stuart, a professor of political science and international studies at Dickinson College, a small private college.

For example, liberal groups wanted 9-11 taught in the context of tolerance and cultural misunderstanding and conservatives wanted teachers to focus on terrorism and national security, Stuart said.

“I didn’t like the fact that you had to go to different kinds of websites to get those different perspectives,” he added.

Stuart said he thinks the national conversation about 9-11, and international relations in general, has evolved since 2001. There’s more critical thinking and polite debate and less forcing of ideologies.

“I think that has gotten down to the classroom level as well,” he said.

At Clio High School, social studies teacher Jennifer Wilson said she’s use a range of materials to teach the topic, including news reports and pictures from the day.

The challenge, she said, is making the topic real for a generation that didn’t experience the day.

For them, it might as well be the JFK assassination.

“They were in first grade, they were in third grade,” Wilson said of her students. “They don’t remember it.”

As read on: http://www.mlive.com/education/index.ssf/2011/09/schools_prepare_to_remember_9-.html

Congratulations to our $500 Test Drive Giveaway WINNER!

2011-09-10T11:43:00.002-04:00

Thanks to all who came in to test drive during our $500 "Test Ride Giveaway"!
We are excited to announce our winner, Sales Representative, Dan Hamblin's customer
Anne Beck-Sawyer of Livonia.

Congratulations to Anne in winning our $500 Giveaway and
the purchase of her new 2011 Jeep Liberty!

Brighton Michiagan - 9/11 Dedication Scheduled for Sunday, September 11, 2011

2011-09-09T15:51:00.002-04:00

Where: Brighton Area Fire Station 31, 615 W Grand River Ave, Brighton, MI 48116
Date: September 11, 2011
Time: 9:00am

Sunday, on the 10th anniversary of 9/11, come and join the Brighton community at Brighton Fire Station 31 to commemorate the 10th anniversary of September 11, 2001.

They will be dedicating the 9/11 memorial, which includes a piece of steel from the World Trade Center, as a permanent memorial to all of the fallen victims of the September 11, 2001 World Trade Center tragedy. The fallen victims will forever remain in our hearts.

Things to know before you go:

- Open to the public

- Be advised that Grand River Avenue will be closed from Main Street to Cross Street.

- Shuttle service available from Brighton Meijer

Features: Open to All
Website: http://www.brightonareafire.com
Phone: 810-229-6640
Price: Free

As read on: http://brighton.patch.com/events/911-dedication-scheduled

Brighton - 9/11 Memorial Site Plan

2011-09-09T15:39:00.000-04:00

City council has approved a site plan for the 9/11 memorial sculpture that will soon be installed in front of the Brighton Area Fire Department. The centerpiece of the memorial is a twisted steel beam that was retrieved from the heart of the ruins of the World Trade Center towers.

According to the site plan, the steel beam, which measures roughly eight feet in length and is about three feet wide, will be suspended by four metal cables attached to crooked steel beams.

Broken pieces of concrete will lay beneath the beam. Surrounding the memorial a wall will stand, etched with the names of firefighters who parished that day and the words, "We will never forget".

The concept was designed free of charge by architect Pete Lindhout of Lindhout Associates. Unilock, a local manufacturer of paving stones and retaining walls has agreed to install the sculpture at no cost to the city.

The beam was originally obtained through an application process that started in 2009. The Brighton Area Fire Department sent in an outline of the memorial along with their application, including where and how the beam would be displayed to The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, the organization that oversees the housing of the World Trade Center’s ruins.

Captain Greg Mobray of the Brighton Area Fire Department, along with five fellow firefighters then went to New York City to pick up the piece of steel and to visit ground zero for the first time.

“It was very emotional since it was the first time any of us had been,” Mobray said. “Pictures just don’t do it justice. It was truly eye-opening to see the true magnitude of what happened that day.”

The beam itself will remain unmodified and shall be preserved as it sits, twisted and cloaked in rust, Mobray said.

The city plans to host a county-wide 9/11 memorial ceremony on Sept. 11 this year. During the ceremony, the memorial will be unveiled.

As read on: http://brighton.patch.com/articles/city-council-oks-911-memorial-site-plan

9/11: 10th Anniversary TV Specials List

2011-09-09T11:53:00.002-04:00

Sunday marks the tenth anniversary of 9/11. To commemorate the event, most of the network channels (as well as many cable channels) will be airing documentaries, news programs, movies or special editions of their regular programs. A few TV specials have aired this week, but the majority will be airing on Friday, Saturday and, of course, Sunday. To help you keep track, here is a list of the available programming.

Friday, September 9

The Early Show (7:00 am, CBS): The morning program will broadcast live from Ground Zero.

9/11 - Ten Years Later (4:00 pm, ReelzChannel): This documentary will examine how 9/11 has shaped movies, entertainment and pop culture.

America Then and Now (5:00 pm, HLN): This special report will examine how Americans' lives have changed in the past 10 years.

CBS Evening News (6:30 pm, CBS): Scott Pelley will anchor the news from Ground Zero.

9/11: The Days After (9:00 pm, History Channel): A look at how the country changed in the days after the attacks.

Dateline (9:00 pm, NBC): Tom Brokaw will look back on the day's events and the people he interviewed about the attacks.

Dr. Drew (9:00 pm, HLN): The celebrity rehab doc explores how families were affected by the attack and how they have been re-built.

9/11: Timeline of Terror (10:00 pm, Fox News Channel): This special revisits a timeline of the events of 9/11 as they happened.

Joy Behar (10:00 pm, HLN): Behar will interview celebrities and other newsmakers about the lessons and effects of 9/11.

Beyond 9/11: Portraits of Resilience (11:00 pm, CNN): Time magazine and HBO present stories of courage and survival (also airs Sept. 11 at 8:46 am on HBO).

Saturday, September 10

The Early Show (CBS): The morning program broadcasts live from Ground Zero.

Nine Innings From Ground Zero (8:00 am, HBO): This HBO Sports documentary focuses on the 2001 World Series between the New York Yankees and the Arizona Diamondbacks, which took place barely a month after Sept. 11, and played an important role in helping the city return to a sense of normalcy.

CBS Evening News (6:30 pm, CBS): Scott Pelley again anchors the news from Ground Zero.

Inside Flight 93 (8:00 pm, A&E): A&E will be rebroadcasting its 2005 TV movie about the hijacking of Flight 93 and the passengers who fought back (also airs Sunday, September 11, at 7:00 am).

The Love We Make (9:00 pm, Showtime): This documentary chronicles Paul McCartney's journey through New York City after his plane was grounded that morning. McCartney's benefit concert, "The Concert for New York City," and its planning will be featured.

On Native Soil (3:00 pm, MSNBC): This documentary, narrated by Kevin Costner and Hilary Swank, examines the 9/11 Commission's report and interviews the people involved in putting it together (also airs Sept. 11 at 9 pm.)

The Suze Orman Show (9:00 pm PT/12:00 am ET, CNBC): Orman discussed the money lessons learned from 9/11.

Voices From Inside the Towers (9:00 pm, History): This film chronicles the stories of love and loss on 9/11.

Beyond: Messages from 9/11 (10:00 pm, BIO Channel): Bonnie McEneaney's husband died on 9/11, but she insists he continues to send her messages. This special takes a look at other who lost loved ones and say they have received signs from the other side.

Portraits From Ground Zero (10:00 pm, A&E): The photos of Andrea Booher are featured in this documentary. Booher is one of only two photographers who were given unlimited, 24-hour access to Ground Zero after the attacks.

Sunday, September 11

America Remembers (5:00 am PT/8:00 am ET, NBC & MSNBC): This three-hour special NBC News broadcast will feature the official memorial ceremonies at Ground Zero in New York, the Pentagon in Washington, D.C., and at the United Flight 93 crash in Shanksville, Penn.

In Memoriam: New York City, 9/11/01 (7:15 am, HBO): Former New York Major Rudolph Giuliani serves as guide as this special combines personal video and photography to illustrate what the mayor and his staff went through during 9/11 and the days that followed.

9/11: America Remembers Ten Years Later (8:00 am, ABC): Good Morning America will air a special three-hour edition anchored by Diane Sawyer and George Stephanopoulos (with Robin Roberts live from the World Trade Center). David Muir, Katie Couric and Christiane Amanpour will also participate.

9/11: America Remembers (8:00 am, CBS): Scott Pelley again anchors the CBS News special live from Ground Zero. A live broadcast of Face the Nation from Ground Zero will follow.

102 Minutes that Changed America (8:46 am, A&E Networks): A&E will rebroadcast the 2008 Emmy-winning special across all of its domestic and international networks, including History Channel.

Beyond 9/11: Portraits of Resilience (8:46 am, HBO): Time magazine and HBO present stories of courage and survival.

Telling Nicholas (10:30 am, HBO Signature): This documentary focuses on the story of 9/11 through the eyes of Nicholas, a seven-year-old boy who lost his mother in the World Trade Center.

The Guys (1:30 pm, HDNet Movies): Sigourney Weaver, Anthony LaPaglia and Irene Walsh star in this drama about a group of people who come together to write eulogies for lost firefighters.

The Concert For New York City: Ten Years Later (4:00 pm, VH1): VH1 rebroadcasts 2001's six-hour benefit concert from Madison Square Garden, featuring appearances and performances from Bill and Hillary Clinton, Elton John, Billy Joel, Mick Jagger, Bon Jovi, The Who, Jay-Z, former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani, Sheryl Crow, Paul McCartney, Jim Carrey and more.

Objects and Memory (4:00 pm, PBS): This special is narrated by Frank Langella and set to the music of Philip Glass. The program explores the importance and meaning of objects recovered during 9/11, the Oklahoma City bombing and the Vietnam War.

Rising: Rebuilding Ground Zero (5:00 pm, Science Channel): Steven Spielberg produced this six-hour special that highlights the team trying to build the new, 104-story One World Trade Center in the face of deadlines and pressure to honor the victims.

NBC Nightly News (6:30 pm, NBC): Brian Williams will anchor a special edition of the news from Ground Zero.

60 Minutes (7:00 pm, CBS): 60 Minutes will devote an hour to 9/11 coverage.

Slammin' Iron: Rebuilding the World (7:05 pm, HDNet): This special will tell the tale of iron workers who are risking their lives to rebuild the World Trade Center.

9/11: In Our Own Words (8:00 pm, MSNBC): NBC news anchors and reporters remember what they were doing on 9/11.

9/11: Ten Years Later (8:00 pm, CBS): Robert De Niro hosts this special, which features exclusive footage from the Naudet brothers and James Hanlon, who were inside and the around the WTC buildings on 9/11. The documentary will also update the footage with interviews from some of the firefighters who appeared in the original documentary.

America Remembers - 9/11 (8:00 pm, PBS): The PBS NewsHour team examines the significance of 9/11 across the country in a one-hour special.

Dan Rather Reports: Dan Rather Remembers 9/11 (8:00 pm, HDNet & HDNet Movies): Rather explores how the attacks changed America and answers viewer questions.

Making the 9/11 Memorial (8:00 pm, History Channel): This special will give viewers a a behind-the-scenes look into the making of the Ground Zero memorial, from conception to installation.

Pentagon Under Fire (8:00 pm, Military Channel): This special tracks the path of the plane that attacked the Pentagon and talks to those who escaped the building.

TCM Commemorates 9/11 (8:00 pm, TCM): First responders Patrick McNally and Vernon Webb introduce an evening of films.

9/11: After the Towers Fell (9:00 pm, Military Channel): The program focuses on the race to save those trapped in the Twin Towers after their collapse.

Great Performances: "The New York Philharmonic 10th Anniversary Concert for 9/11" (9:00 pm, PBS): The orchestra offers a performance of Gustav Mahler's Symphony No. 2, Resurrection.

Rebirth (9:00 pm, Showtime): This Sundance documentary examines the lives of five people changed by 9/11 over the last 10 years.

The Space Between (9:00 pm, USA Network): This is Oscar winner Melissa Leo's 2010 Tribecca Film Festival entrant. She plays a flight attendant who must help a 10-year-old Pakistani-American boy after the attacks.

The Twins of the Twin Towers (9:00 pm, OWN): In an interesting twist, this special focuses on the more than 40 twins who lost their siblings on 9/11.

Loose Change 9/11: An American Coup (9:15 pm, HDNet Movies): Versions of this film have been floating around the internet for years. They propose that 9/11 was actually the work of a U.S. government conspiracy.

9/11: The Towers and the Pentagon (10:00 pm, Military Channel): Forensic engineers explain the engineering mysteries of 9/11, including why the Pentagon survived the attack while the Twin Towers collapsed.

Remembrance and Renewal: 10 Years After the 9/11 Attacks (10:00 pm, ABC): This special edition of 20/20 will look back on 9/11.

From the Ground Up (10:15 pm, OWN): The story of five widows who lost their firefighter husbands in 9/11.

Twin Towers (10:21 pm, USA Network): This Oscar-winning documentary short is about a New York City policeman and fireman who are brothers. The short is based on footage originally shot for a reality pilot for Dick Wolf's production company.

Frontline: "The Man Who Knew" (10:30 pm, PBS): This special tells the story of 9/11 victim John O'Neill, a former top counter-terrorism FBI agent, who was pushed out and took a job as head of security at the World Trade Center.

Conspiracy Files: 9/11 Ten Years On (11:00 pm, HDNet Movies): This special examines the various conspiracy theories surrounding the day's events.

As read on: http://tvovermind.zap2it.com/tv-news/911-ten-year-anniversary-tv-specials/90558

Stay competitive with your Small Business!

2011-09-07T12:01:00.001-04:00

SCHOOLCRAFT - EXPORT BOOT CAMP, BEGINNING 9/15/11

Get your small business the information to be competitive in the global marketplace. Learn the basic tools to initiate or expand into international markets. Topics covered include: risk assessment, supply chain management, finance, freight forwarding, insurance, product classification, export regulations, and marketing. Come away with numerous resources to grow your international business. Schoolcraft College will be offering this 5-week program beginning Thursday, September 15th (9 am - 3:30 pm). The program costs $245/person and you may view registration details, at: http://www.schoolcraft.edu/bdc/seminars-small-business.asp Questions? Contact Schoolcraft College MI-SBTDC at (734) 462-4438.

As read on: http://livoniachamberofcommerce.blogspot.com/

Demo Ride and NEW Product Announcements!

2011-09-06T17:39:00.000-04:00

We had a fantastic Event Last Friday & Saturday!!
A HUGE Thanks to the Wolverine State Victory Riders for all your help!
We met a lot of new people and had an all around great time. We can't wait
until our next event! We look for just about any reason to throw a good party.
The even was completed by Ken Mack and the Blackjack Band on Saturday
everyone enjoyed some great food, fun and great Classic Rock LIVE!

We had 140 riders come out and take a new 2012 Victory for a test ride and we
were busy selling tons of bikes over the weekend!! Our Showroom is looking a little empty
but the good news is more 2012 Models are rolling in AND we are excited to announce that
Coming VERY SOON we will also be selling Polaris ATV's and Side x Sides!!

Click Here to see all the great Pictures from our Demo Ride Event!
And watch here and on our Facebook Page for more announcements on
our new additions!!

Northville Adult/Senior Services Activities

2011-09-04T12:16:00.001-04:00

Adult/Senior Services Activities
Northville Community Senior Center
303 W. Main Street
Northville, MI 48167
(248) 349-4140
Visit our website by clicking here

Flu Shot Clinic - Wednesday, October 12, 1:00pm-6:00pm
The Visiting Nurses Association will be available to provide Flu or Pneumonia shots. The clinic will be held at the Northville Community Senior Center, 303 W. Main Street. Flu shot includes H1N1 with seasonal flu shot. Pre-registration Required. \$25 Flu Shot, \$30 Flu Mist, \$70 Pneumonia Shot

Shop Chicago
On your mark, get set, shop! Shop Chicago! Travel to Chicago in luxury motor coaches and spend the day on your own shopping the Magnificent Mile. Trip sold out in 2010, our first year… So register early to reserve your seat!
Saturday, November 12
\$59 (resident)
Note: Registration ends November 9th or while space is available. All registrations received after November 2nd will be charged a \$5 late fee. Click here for more information.

Friday Flicks
Fridays at 1:00pm
Pick-up our newsletter for movie listing. No pre-registration required
\$1.00 per person Click here for more information.

Our Special Events are looking for your donations...
Clean out your junk drawers, closets, and kitchens! We will gladly accept the following items that have been cleaned or are new and in packages.

Decorations from the following countries: Africa, China, France, Australia, United States
Halloween Decorations, not-too-scary
Items can be dropped off at the Recreation Center at Hillside, 700 West Baseline, Northville, MI 48167 before December 1, 2011. Click here for more information.

Not so Spooky Treat of Treat in Northville

2011-09-02T12:13:00.000-04:00

Preschool- 3rd Grade

Trick or Treat Trail at Mill Race Village this Year!
Sunday, October 23rd, 2011 - 4:40pm-6:40pm (timed admissions)
$8.00/Child, parents are FREE

Trick of Treat around Northville's own historic Mill Race Village (215 Grisold) and visit the not-so-spooky houses at this annual Holloween treat. Due to the nature of the event, registration is not available at the event. Pre-registration is required.

- Event held rain or shine, so please dress appropriately
- Please arrive at the event entrance a few minutes prior to your time.
- Wear costumes, bring a trick or treat bag
- Parking is available at Ford Field or behind the Planet Fitness Building.

16th Annual FISHING DERBY

2011-09-01T12:02:00.001-04:00

Wayne County Parks, Northville Parks and Recreation and Vietnam Veterans of America Plymouth/Canton Chapter 528 Proudly present the 16th Annual FISHING DERBY

Saturday, September 24
8:00 a.m. – Noon
Hines Park
Waterford Bend Area
(Northville Road, North of Six Mile in Northville)

- The Middle Rouge River will be stocked with 10”- 12” rainbow trout.
**Prizes will be given away in a variety of categories. Some fish will be tagged for prizes.**
- All anglers need to bring their own equipment and bait.
- There is a three fish limit.
- Pre-registration is NOT required.
- No fishing license is required for this event.

Schedule of Events
7:30-8:00 a.m. Registration on site
8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. Children 12 years old and younger can
fish and participate in the casting contest
10:30 a.m. Presentation of prizes to children
10:00 a.m. – Noon Fishing for all ages

For more info, call (734) 261-1990 or visit www.waynecountyparks.org
As read on: http://www.northvilleparksandrec.org/SpecialEvents/PDF/Flyer-FishingDerby.pdf

2012 Nissan Leaf

2011-08-30T12:04:00.000-04:00

Nissan LEAF NEWS
August 2011

Reservations for the 2012 Nissan LEAFTM have now been opened in more states across the country. They include, CA, WA, OR, TN, HA, TX, AS, MS, AL, IL, FL, GA, SC, NC, VA, MD and Washington D.C. If you live in any of these states, you can just go to the Nissan LEAFTM website and click "reserve". Once you reserve, you'll automatically be able to request a quote from a Nissan dealer and place your order. the 2012 Nissan LEAFTM features upgrades based on feedback from early LEAFTM drivers, such as making quick charging and cold-weather features standard. to find out about all the markets the Nissan LEAFTM is expanding to, and to learn more about the various feature upgrades.

Click here for full article!

Wildcats Football Wins Showdown

2011-08-29T16:53:00.000-04:00

After making it to the Division 1 state championship last fall, the Plymouth Wildcats football team opened the 2011 season Saturday with a 47-13 win over Monroe St. Mary Catholic Central.

The match was a part of the Big Day Prep Showdown at Eastern Michigan University, a three-day event run by the nonprofit Detroit Sports.

Senior running back Dante Fox started the team on the right track, running 59 yards for a touchdown on the first play of the first possession.

"That got me hyped up," Fox said after the game Saturday. "I was dreaming about it all night. I could't sleep because I was thinking about the game. The one thing I wanted to do was, on my first run, score to set the tone for the team."

Plymouth held Catholic Central scoreless until the fourth quarter.

The Wildcats' next game is Thursday at Howell High School.

As Read on: http://canton-mi.patch.com/articles/wildcats-football-wins-showdown#photo-7514574

Crowds expected for inaugural Hines Drive cruise

2011-08-25T11:48:00.000-04:00

Don Nicholson has done his share of car shows and cruises, but he has to admit that he's “blown away by the day” by the response to next Sunday's inaugural Cruisin' Hines Drive.

“I've been told that this will be the Dream Cruise of Wayne County,” the Westland resident said of the Aug. 28 event. “I've had more hits to print the registration form on the website that there should be 5,000 cars bumper to bumper from Ann Arbor Trail to Outer Drive.”

Hines Park will be closed Sunday, Aug. 28 to “normal” traffic from Westland to Dearborn, and that section of roadway will be limited to classic cars and hot rods. A classic is any car that is 25 years and older, while a hot rod is anything that is modified, said Nicholson, the cruise organizer.

The event is drawing interest from in and around the metropolitan area as well as outstate and out of state. Inquires have come from Lansing, London, Ontario and Ohio.
“People seem to really like it because it's the only cruise where you'll see just classic cars and hot rods,” Nicholson said.

Nicholson is asking cruisers to download the registration form at www.DonNicholson.net and fill it out in advance to make registration move faster at the Nankin Mills pavilion on cruise day. All cars will have to enter and register at the Ann Arbor Trail entrance. There is no charge for registration.

Spectators will enter at Merriman, Telegraph and Warrendale. All three of the pavilions in those areas will be free to spectators during the cruise. Vendors will set up in those areas, and several car clubs have rented locations “to do their thing,” said Nicholson.

“The bike path will be open so people can still ride their bikes,” said Nicholson. “There will be cars along the route so we ask people to be kinds to the cars, if they're on their bikes.”

There will be parades of one brand or model of car in single file on the hour and Henry's Field in the Nankin Mills area is reserved for all pre-1931 vehicles. The Motorsports Hall of Fame will have Kenny Bernstein's top fuel funny car on display and the original Monkeemobile and Ghostbuster car will also be there.

The Six Foot Poles will perform from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the band stand in the Nankin Mills area. It's sponsored by Gordon Chevrolet. WOMC will be doing live remote feeds from the same stage from 2 to 6 p.m.

“Six Foot Poles was the cruise band for Cruisin' Michigan Avenue and for my Wayne Skills Center car show,” said Nicholson. “I think they've become the official car show and cruise band.”

Mixed in with the vendors will be charitable groups like the Wayne Rotary Club, which will be doing fundraising for Fallen Soldiers. They're being sponsored by Tennyson Chevrolet.

Nicholson wants to see the public come down and watch what he says will be a “moving car show.” He would love to see 15,000 cars come for the cruise, While he doesn't think he'll see that for the inaugural event, he “would like to make Hines Drive into one big traffic jam.”

“The park lends itself to this; it's so natural,” he said. “I wish I had done this sooner.”

As read on: http://www.hometownlife.com/article/20110821/NEWS16/108210472/Crowds-expected-inaugural-Hines-Drive-cruise

THIS Friday and Saturday the Victory Demo Truck is HERE!

2011-08-24T06:16:00.000-04:00

Tuesday's Earthquake in Virginia was felt all the way in Michigan

2011-08-24T04:50:00.000-04:00

WASHINGTON -- A 5.9-magnitude earthquake rattled a wide swath of the eastern US Tuesday, forcing at least partial evacuations of the US Capitol building and White House in Washington, D.C. as well as the Pentagon in Virginia.

The earthquake's epicenter was 87 miles (140km) southwest of the capital near Mineral, Va., the US Geological Survey said. It struck at 1:51pm ET at a depth of 3.7 miles (5.6km). There were no tsunami warnings issued after the quake.

Fox 2 Viewers report tremors in metro Detroit. If you felt the quake, please add your comments below.

Fox 2 is looking for video of the local tremors. If you have security surveillance camera video or any video that demonstrates the tremor, please upload it it here . >>

The earthquake, which was originally reported as a 5.8-magnitude, could also be felt as far away as New York City, Michigan and Toronto, reports said.

Flights out of John F. Kennedy and Newark Liberty airports were halted after their control towers were evacuated by the Federal Aviation Administration as a precaution, a Port Authority spokesman told The Wall Street Journal. FOX News Channel reported that New York's LaGuardia Airport remained functioning.

Cell phone service in and around Washington, D.C., was reportedly disrupted after the tremor. The rattling was strong enough that pictures hanging in the Capitol building reportedly fell from the walls, FOX News Channel reported.

The quake was also reportedly felt on Martha's Vineyard, the island off Massachusetts where President Barack Obama is vacationing with his family.

Larry Sabato, director of the University of Virginia Center for Politics, posted on Twitter a description of the strength of the quake as felt from his building at the university.

"I thought the Pavilion would collapse -- seriously," he wrote. "At first I thought it was an explosion. Pavilion IV on Lawn was swaying. Cracks here and there, broken window panes."

"My first thought was that a plane had crashed into the Lawn," he wrote. "It was that violent. But it went on too long."

New York City Hall was also evacuated, the New York Post reported.

The Wall Street Journal reported lamps shaking, computer monitors bouncing and other furniture moving for roughly 10 seconds at its headquarters on Sixth Avenue in midtown Manhattan.

The Journal reported that there have been no reported disruptions to New York's Metropolitan Transit Authority service as a result of the earthquake. Washington residents, however, were reporting delays to DC public transportation as well as Amtrak service.

Also in New York, Manhattan District Attorney Cyrus Vance Jr. had just opened a press conference to speak about the dismissal of Dominique Strauss-Kahn's sex assault case when the quake hit. Officials flanking the top prosecutor appeared to lose their footing and, along with members of the press, began to evacuate the briefing room.

Aftershocks were reportedly felt in New York City and Boston shortly after the initial quake.

Officials could not immediately confirm reports that two Virginia nuclear plants were undamaged, but taken offline, after the earthquake.

The quake epicenter is reportedly just 13 miles (21km) from the North Anna nuclear facility, on shores of Lake Anna, in central Virginia.

As read on: http://www.myfoxdetroit.com/dpp/news/local/earthquake-rattles-virginia,-tremors-felt-in-michigan_20110823_dk

The Nissan LEAF IS Here today!!

2011-08-23T16:13:00.002-04:00

The Nissan LEAF will be on display TODAY, Tuesday, August 23 at
Dick Scott Nissan
42175 Michigan Ave, Canton, MI 48188
734-495-1000
www.DickScottNissan.com

Come by for this
ALL DAY Nissan LEAF Event*
From 10am - 6pm!

Come see the Nissan Leaf in-person! You will have an opportunity to explore it from the inside out and see all the LEAF has to offer!

Despite Storm, Crowds Still Come Out to Woodward

2011-08-22T07:26:00.000-04:00

Fans of the Woodward Dream Cruise weren't deterred by the strong storms that rolled through Saturday afternoon, as hundreds of cruise fans packed the sides of Woodward Avenue Saturday night, watching the increasing number of cars still cruising despite the official closure of the Dream Cruise.

Birmingham Police Sgt. Michael Albrecht, the officer in charge of Cruise shutdown for Birmingham, said he called nine of his regular officers back in after the storms cleared up. Combined with the 12 auxillary officers, the police will continue to patrol Woodward Avenue on foot and bike.

Albrecht said Birmingham police aren't encouraging anyone to go home, despite the closure of the Cruise after massive power outages struck Royal Oak, Berkley, Beverly Hills and parts of Birmingham after the storm. By 9:30 p.m., 950 DTE customers in Birmingham were still without power, though most were clustered in the southwestern corner of the city. Most of the homes without power borders Beverly Hills, where the majority of the outages occured.

Glen and Laurie Heuer and Barbara and Frank Carlesimo, all from Sterling Heights, were parked in their chairs in the 555 triangle around 7 p.m. Saturday. As Chevrolet packed away their classic and new car displays behind them, the Heuers and Carlesimos were ready to watch the cruisers rain or shine.

"We arrived right after the storm, but we come every year," said Laurie Heuer.

As for whether they would be out cruising Woodward, Barbara Carlesimos said they could only wish.

"We'd love to have one of our (classic car)," she said. "We haven't won the lottery yet."

Another group of die-hard Cruise fans were the members of the Seaholm High School swim team, who were still selling water to passing cruisers for $1 to raise funds for their team. Caroline Filips, wearing a star costume, said they ran under cover when the storm hit but came right back out afterward.

The folks from Advanced Screen Printing, with a T-shirt booth south of Lincoln Avenue, also said they weren't deterred by the closure of the Cruise.

"We'll be out until 10," said Jodi Williamson, who was working the booth.

Though a large portion of the Saturday night cruisers were hotrods, Tom Thomas from Lake Orion, who was watching from the back of his pick-up with his wife Kathy, said the rain drove many of the classics away.

As read on: http://birmingham.patch.com/articles/despite-storm-crowds-still-come-out-to-woodward

Chrysler Debuts 'No Payments for 90 Days' Program

2011-08-21T11:54:00.001-04:00

Chrysler has launched a new "no payments for 90 days" promotion to make room for NEW Inventory.

The program will end on September 6 and covers all 2011 and 2012 Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge and Ram Truck models financed through Ally Financial.

Other special deals announced on Wednesday include zero-percent financing for 36 months or $2,000 cash back on the 2011 Dodge Charger.

Customers who purchase a 2011 Chrysler 300 or 300C may be eligible for financing as low as zero-percent for 36 months or $2,000 cash back.

Deals are also in place on certain 2012 models, including the 2012 Chrysler 200. Qualified customers who purchase a 2012 Chrysler 200 may get $500 cash back, while 2012 Jeep Liberty buyers may get $1,000 cash back. The $500 cash-back incentive also covers the 2012 Dodge Avenger and 2012 Dodge Journey.

2012 Ram Truck buyers may be eligible for $500 cash back plus an additional $1,000 in "bonus cash."

Health Care Training/American Red Cross

2011-08-19T09:39:00.000-04:00

Where: 20319 Middlebelt Rd, Livonia, MI 48152
Date: Daily
Time: 9:00am–4:00pm
Next on: Tomorrow, August 18, 2011

The American Red Cross, a non-profit organization, is currently offering Nurse Assistant, Home Health Aide and Patient Care Tech Training Classes at multiple classroom sites. All of our proceeds after expenses, go to Chapter services, such as Emergency Services in Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, St. Clair and Monroe Counties.

The addresses are as follows:

1. Livonia 20319 Middlebelt Rd. Livonia, MI 48152.

2. Macomb 13260 11 Mile Rd. Warren, MI, 48089

3. Waterford 5144 Highland Rd. Waterford, Mi 48327

4. Riverview 20950 Grange Rd. Riverview, MI 48193

5. Detroit – Palms Building 2111 Woodward Ave., Detroit, MI, 48201

6. Port Huron 615 Pine Street, Port Huron Michigan 48060

For further information, as well as class dates and times, please contact the American Red Cross at (313) 576-4130 or (313) 576-4120.

Website: http://www.semredcross.org
Phone: 313-576-4120

As read on: http://northville.patch.com/events/health-care-trainingamerican-red-cross

Help stock the Family Impact Center food pantry!

2011-08-18T11:06:00.000-04:00

Botsford Named Among Top 100 Community Value Hospitals

2011-08-17T08:05:00.000-04:00

An award that puts Botsford Hospital among the nation's top 100 medical facilities reflects both the quality and cost-effectiveness of care the hospital provides.

Chief Medical Officer Dr. David Walters said the Community Value 100 and Community Value Five-Star awards came as a surprise to hospital officials. While some awards require applications, this one was given by an independent company that uses publicly accessible data to evaluate the country's more than 6,000 hospitals.

"I think it demonstrates that we have a high quality of care," Walters said. "If you stick to evidence-based medicine, it really drives that quality."

He defined "evidence-based medicine" with an example: When someone comes into the emergency department with a bad headache, there are guidelines, supported by research, that show some of those patients need a CAT (computerized axial tomography) scan, and some do not. Rather than doing the expensive scan on every patient with a headache, Botsford relies on those guidelines.

That approach helped earn Botsford the prestigious award, but it's also part of the national health care debate.

"A lot of what we're talking about with health care reform across the country has to do with evidence-based protocols," Walters said. "... If you follow the evidence, you are most likely to have good outcomes.

"If we're going to control costs of medical care across the country, this is the model we're going to have to look at," he added.

While hospitals are measured by many rankings, Walters said the Community Value awards issued by Cleverley & Associates, a private company that provides objective information to hospitals and organizations serving the health care industry, are unique.

"It focuses on our efficiencies," Walters said. "It really demonstrates the value we provide to the community we serve."

The awards are a direct tribute to Botsford physicians and the quality of care they provide, Walters said. As a teaching hospital, Botsford also has a natural emphasis on staying abreast of the latest trends in medicine, he added.

"From a physician's standpoint, we're particularly proud of it because it demonstrates the quality of care we give here," he said.

Learn more about Botsford Hospital at botsford.org. Learn more about the Community Value awards at cleverleyassociates.com.

As read on: http://farmington-mi.patch.com/articles/botsford-named-among-top-100-community-value-hospitals?ncid=M255